Blog
Welcome to the archive of our Western Spirit Newsletter Blog! We’re thrilled to bring you updates, stories, and insights into the vibrant world of the Museum. As a cultural haven nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, we take pride in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage, art, and history of the Old and New West. Join us on this virtual journey as we explore fascinating exhibitions, upcoming events, educational programs, and the incredible stories that make our Western Spirit Museum a true treasure trove of discovery and inspiration.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West Named Best Western Art Museum in the Nation
Since opening in January 2015, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West has garnered numerous awards, achievements and accolades, including the designation of Smithsonian Affiliate. To these, it can now add “Best Western Art Museum in the Nation” for its...
Prisoners as Craftsmen of the West
During the 19th and 20th centuries, prisoners made and sold an unusual variety of items. Their handiwork included carved, hammered, braided, painted and whittled objects. Spurs, reatas, belts, bits and bridles were among the many types of exquisite merchandise created...
“Spirit of the West” Featured Object: “Ride with Pancho Villa” Poster
Pancho Villa, of peasant heritage, was the leader of a successful Mexican Revolutionary Army in the North. He shocked the United States when in 1916 he raided Columbus, N.M., killing 18 Americans. Reasons for the raid are disputed. Following the raid, Gen. John J....
“Spirit of the West” Featured Object: Maggie Wright’s Phillips & Gutierrez Prize Spurs
Mrs. Ed (Maggie) Wright was a skilled and talented professional rodeo performer, who had a true west spirit for daring stunts. Maggie won the top rodeo event at Cheyenne, Wyoming’s Championship Lady Bronco Busting contest on July 28, 1917. As the top rider she won the...
Award-Winning Design
"From the curb to the galleries, the facility is beautiful and meaningful." That is how the American Society of Interior Designers, Arizona North Chapter, recently described Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West. The ASID chapter presented the museum with...
Flocks of Sheep Were Once a Common Sight in Downtown Scottsdale
There was a time when, instead of throngs of winter visitors, the streets of downtown Scottsdale teemed with herds of sheep on their way to Arizona’s high country for the summer, or back home for the winter. Marjorie Thomas was Scottsdale’s first resident artist and...
“Spirit of the West” Featured Object: N. Porter Saddle and Harness Company 1898 Saddle
Western spirit was certainly evident when Newton Porter launched his saddlery shop in downtown Phoenix more than 115 years ago. Hardened by more than two decades of operating saddle shops in several western states and Alaska, he was well-suited to the challenge his...
Grand Opening
Shining like a desert star in the heart of historic Old Town Scottsdale, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West will be a premier cultural destination in a locale that has been called “The West’s Most Western Town.” Opening to the public on January 15, 2015,...