Museum Event – American Buffalo: From the Brink of Extinction to a Conservation Success Story

The Mesa Historical Museum is pleased to announce a special program titled “American Buffalo: From the Brink of Extinction to a Conservation Success Story,” hosted by Museum Director Susan Ricci. The event will explore the dramatic decline and subsequent recovery of the North American buffalo, whose population once numbered as many as 60 million animals but dwindled to fewer than a thousand by the late 19th century.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, August 22, 2024
• Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
• Location: Mesa Historical Museum, 2345 N. Horne, Mesa, AZ 85203
• Admission: Adults - $7, Seniors - $5, Military Personnel - $5, Youth (6-17) - $4, Children 5 & Under - Free, Members - Free, Tribal Members - Free

Susan Ricci, a seasoned expert in bison restoration and Native American buffalo culture, will lead the discussion. She will examine the causes behind the buffalo’s near-extinction, the importance of the buffalo to Native American tribes, and the remarkable conservation efforts that have helped bring the species back from the brink.

Ricci has dedicated over twenty years to educating the public about the history and conservation of bison. Her expertise is rooted in her experience as a former buffalo rancher and her role as the founder of the Museum of the American Bison, located at Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota. Her deep knowledge and personal connection to the subject offer attendees a unique perspective on the buffalo’s survival story.

“The story of the American buffalo is not just about an animal, but about the resilience and interconnectedness of our ecosystems and cultures,” Ricci said. “Understanding their history helps us appreciate the vital role they play today and the significance of ongoing conservation efforts.”

Attendees will gain insight into how the loss of the buffalo affected Native American tribes and the crucial steps taken to preserve this iconic species. Ricci’s lecture will provide a comprehensive look at the buffalo’s journey from near extinction to a symbol of successful conservation.

The Mesa Historical Museum invites the community to join this informative and engaging program. For more information, visit mesahistoricalmuseum.com or contact [email protected].