WNMU Museum Collection Grows Through Major Artifact Transfer

SILVER CITY – The Western New Mexico University Museum in Silver City, NM has significantly expanded its permanent collection through a major transfer of artifacts from the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The acquisition adds a diverse selection of Casas Grandes pottery and ethno-historic Indigenous Mexican objects, strengthening areas of the museum’s collection that were previously limited. The transfer was made possible after the Museum of Northern Arizona deaccessioned items that no longer aligned with its mission, allowing the two institutions to work together to preserve the artifacts for public education and research.

According to WNMU Museum Director Danielle Romero, Ph.D., the addition fills important gaps in the museum’s Casas Grandes holdings. The transfer includes pre-Hispanic vessels, particularly examples of the Madera Black-on-red ceramic style, which had been represented by only a single piece in the museum’s collection. The acquisition also expands the museum’s number of Casas Grandes effigy vessels.

In addition to archaeological materials, the transfer includes Indigenous Mexican cultural items primarily dating from the 1950s and 1960s. New additions feature Mata Ortiz ceramics, Wixárika woven accessories, Rarámuri baskets, and Comcaac baskets and jewelry, providing broader representation of Indigenous artistic traditions and cultural heritage.

Museum officials say the collection will help tell a more complete story of the enduring artistry and resilience of Indigenous communities. While some of the newly acquired objects are already on display, most will become available to the public after cataloging and documentation are completed.

The WNMU Museum has also launched an online catalog to improve public access to its collections. The digital portal is being updated regularly with artifacts, photographs, and archival materials while maintaining safeguards to ensure culturally sensitive items are not publicly displayed online.

The growing collection can be explored in person at the WNMU Museum or online through the museum’s catalog portal.

by Bravo Mic Communications, LLC staff – News@Bravomic.com