​The Standing Bear Museum and Education Center in Ponca City, Oklahoma, serves as a powerful cultural and historical institution dedicated to the legacy of Ponca Chief Standing Bear and Native American heritage. This museum commemorates Standing Bear’s significant role in securing civil rights for Native Americans, notably his 1879 court victory that declared Native Americans "persons within the meaning of the law," granting them the right of habeas corpus.


The Story Behind the Museum
In 1993, a committee of tribal and community leaders was formed in Ponca City to promote education about Native American culture. The committee included representatives from the six local tribes: Kaw, Osage, Otoe-Missouria, Pawnee, Ponca, and Tonkawa. The committee's goal was to erect a statue that would honor a Native American leader. After deliberating, Chief Standing Bear was selected as the subject of this monumental tribute, recognizing his role in the landmark legal case that set a precedent for Native American civil rights.


Standing Bear's Legacy
In 1879, Standing Bear made history by successfully arguing in U.S. District Court that Native Americans were entitled to civil rights. His eloquent speech, declaring, "I am a man. The same God made us both," remains an enduring symbol of his fight for equality. His victory marked the first time a Native American was granted civil rights under American law, a pivotal moment in the history of Native American struggles for justice.


A Monumental Tribute
Visitors to the Standing Bear Museum and Education Center are greeted by a striking 22-foot bronze statue of Chief Standing Bear. Created by Cowboy Artist of America Oreland C. Joe, the statue depicts Standing Bear with his right hand extended eastward, gazing toward the Arkansas River Valley. The park that surrounds the statue spans over eight acres, offering visitors a peaceful space to reflect. Highlights include a one-acre pond with a central arrowhead island, a winding walking trail through native grasses, and a shaded memorial grove. A colorful 60-foot diameter circular viewing court is located at the feet of the statue, with limestone boulders engraved with the official seals of the six area tribes.

​Exploring the Museum and Education Center

Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibits that feature sculptures, paintings, and photographs celebrating Native American culture. The rotunda showcases display cases that honor the six area tribes, and visitors can view the original models of the Standing Bear statue. The museum offers an immersive experience into the life and legacy of Chief Standing Bear, as well as the broader history of Native Americans.

Standing Bear Museum & Education Center
Monday-Friday - 9AM-4PM
Saturday - ​10AM-2PM

Standing Bear Park
Open Daily - 6AM-9PM

Visiting Information
The Standing Bear Museum and Education Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the park and museum. Special arrangements and group tours can be made by calling 580-762-1514. The museum is located at 601 Standing Bear Parkway, Ponca City, Oklahoma, and serves as a lasting tribute to the strength, resilience, and contributions of Native Americans to American society.

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