Quechan Indian Museum

Located on the California side of the Colorado River, Fort Yuma features a variety of archaeological items, photographs, arts and crafts, and a variety of materials that help visitors experience the culture of the Quechan Indians. The fort was formerly used as a school for Native American children before being renovated into the museum. The items strive to trace the history of the Indians in a way that is educational and interesting to visitors. The reservation borders California, Meixco, and Arizona. It is made up of 45,000-acres of land and is bisected by Highway 8. Each year millions of cars drive through the reservation on their way from San Diego to Phoenix. The Quechan were originally known as the Yuma but now prefer to be called the Quechan. They have a reputation as fighters in the Native American community and have battled other tribes throughout history. Most of their fights were due to the fertile flood plans in the area. The tribe is mainly a culture of agriculture and there are approximately 2,500 members in the tribe. The tribe also runs gravel and sand operations in order to complement their farming community. The museum gives visitors a chance to experience first hand the culture of the Quechan.