Discover the Pratt Museum, a cultural and natural heritage treasure trove in Homer, Alaska. Experience local history, art, and a live seabird display all under one roof. Find out what awaits you at this distinctive Alaskan landmark.
Key Takeaways
- The Pratt Museum in Homer, Alaska, offers rich educational and cultural experiences, including history tours, botanical garden tours, and storytimes for children.
- Visitors can explore diverse exhibits by Alaskan Artists and a broad collection of fine art, historical photos, anthropology, and marine and natural history to enhance the understanding of Homer, Alaska, and Kachemak Bay.
- Summer 2024 Main Gallery Exhibit, Inner Stellar, features the work of American painter Marjorie Scholl.
The History of the Pratt Museum
In 1967, the City of Homer, Alaska, working with The Homer Society of Natural History, established a museum as part of Homer's centennial celebration commemorating the purchase of Alaska from Russia. The Pratt Museum, a key attraction for anyone exploring things to do in Homer, Alaska, was built on land generously donated by Sam and Vega Pratt.
Sam Pratt, born on November 15, 1889, in Woodland, Illinois, moved to Alaska in 1934 and settled in Homer two years later, where he met his future wife, Vega Anderson. Together, they ventured into fox farming and commercial fishing. In 1947, they opened Vega's Art and Gift Shop. This venue resembled a small department store selling art supplies and various goods.
Sam's collection of art and local artifacts significantly influenced the establishment of the Homer Society of Natural History in 1955, which ultimately led to the creation of the Museum named in their honor more than a decade later.
The Pratt Museum opened in 1968 and was built on land donated by Sam and Vega Pratt. The original Homer Society of Natural History collection is distributed throughout the Museum and the Harrington Cabin. Today, the Pratt Museum welcomes approximately 15,000 visitors annually.
Indoor exhibits focus on art, natural history, native cultures, homesteading, fishing, and marine ecology. Outdoor exhibits include the historic Harrington cabin, botanical and homestead gardens, and a natural, forested trail system enlivened by summer and permanent art installations.
Exploring the Riches of Pratt Museum Homestead
At the Pratt Museum, a key highlight for those exploring things to do in Homer, Alaska, you'll find the Harrington Cabin just outside the main building.
This cabin offers a vivid glimpse into the lives of hard-working pioneers and homesteaders in the Kachemak Bay area. It houses a rich collection of hand tools, daily diaries, crochet work, and kitchen supplies, each echoing the self-reliant era with the distinctiveness of a fossilized shell.
During the summer, guided tours are available. Visitors can listen to an oral history recording when a cabin interpreter is absent.
Adjacent to the Museum, a quaint heirloom garden displays local varieties of produce that once sustained these early settlers.
The Pratt Museum is dedicated to celebrating Alaska's natural splendor. This is showcased through Free Garden Tours conducted by a naturalist on Thursdays from 11 am to Noon throughout the summer. Visitors can explore the Museum's botanical gardens, the homestead garden, and forest trails. These tours provide a unique chance to learn about the local plant communities and the overall ecosystem of the region.
First Fridays
On the First Friday of each month, the Pratt Museum is open from 4 pm to 6 pm - admission at that time is free.
Tours
Botanical Garden Tours with a naturalist are conducted on Thursdays from 11 am to Noon throughout the summer. FREE
Harbor Tour
Join a Pratt Museum Docent for a historic walking tour of the Homer Small Boat Harbor! Discover the history of the Spit, explore the Harbor, learn about historic buildings, and gain insights into the various vessels docked there. Meet at the Boat House near the top of Ramp Two at 3 pm (click HERE for Google Maps)
Tickets may be purchased during the Tour or in advance at the Pratt Museum Admissions Desk and online.
Workshops
Not just limited to history and botany, the Pratt Museum offers unique workshops combining art and natural sciences:
Special Workshops Summer 2024:
June 15 - Rethinking Weeds - Anthropology Meets Gardening
June 29 - Nettle Fiber Workshop
July 12 - Basket Making Using Natural Materials
July 20 - Are there Peonies at the Pratt Museum? Homestead Gardening in Homer and Alaska
August 24 - Growing Carnivorous Plants
Register for Workshops here.
Storytime at the Pratt 2024
Stories & Activities
Tuesdays 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
FREE
Experience the Pratt Museum Exhibits
Summer 2024:
Inner Stellar, in the Pratt Museum main Gallery, features the work of American painter Marjorie Scholl. This exhibition will be displayed from May 17 through September 20 in the Main Gallery at the Pratt Museum.
The Inner Stellar collection by American painter Marjorie Scholl celebrates the profound journey of reconnecting with one's inner child. Scholl has meticulously painted various community members, accompanying each portrait with narrative-like text she co-created with her subjects.
Each artwork captures the essence of its subject, embodying the individual's unique ancestry, hardships, and healing processes, all while presenting an authentically determined outlook. The figures' postures and gazes reveal their histories and hint at the generational wisdom that fosters insight and strength. The subjects of these portraits actively contributed to the visual and narrative elements of their portraits.
Scholl's inclusion of a self-portrait deepens the series, offering a glimpse into her own continuous journey through generational trauma and her reconnection with her inner child.
40th Anniversary Sister City Celebration:
The Pratt Museum proudly presents the "40th Anniversary Sister-City Celebration" exhibit, showcasing works from the City of Homer's Municipal Art Collection.
This year, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of the Sister City relationship between Homer, Alaska, and Teshio, Hokkaido, Japan, established on April 7, 1984.
Over the past four decades, Homer and Teshio have fostered a deep bond through family connections, student exchanges, shared ideals, and the exchange of memorabilia. This exhibit highlights the rich cultural exchange between the two cities. It offers visitors a chance to learn more about Teshio, strengthen ties with our Sister City, and appreciate the treasured artworks that Teshio has gifted to Homer.
Eighteen pieces of art generously donated by Teshio over the years will be on display in the Main Lobby of the Pratt Museum from May 1 to September 7. This is a unique opportunity to delve into the cross-cultural friendship and artistic heritage that enrich Homer, Alaska, and Teshio, Hokkaido, Japan.
Permanent Exhibits
Central Exhibit
The Central Exhibition takes visitors beyond the museum walls to see the historical and contemporary life around Kachemak Bay. Through community-based videos, photo essays, computer interactives, and remote video technology, these exhibits and programs encourage curiosity and spark passionate interest in Homer's Past and Present.
The Marine Gallery
In the Marine Gallery, visitors can explore a diverse range of exhibits that highlight Alaska's rich marine and maritime history. Among the standout features is the Gull Cam Exhibit, which offers a live stream from Gull Island, providing a unique window into the lives of the seabirds inhabiting the area.
The gallery also hosts a comprehensive Exxon Valdez Oil Spill exhibit detailing its devastating effects on the local environment, particularly in Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet. This spill, one of the most catastrophic environmental disasters in the region, had long-lasting impacts on the marine ecosystem, affecting numerous species of fish, marine mammals, and birds. The exhibit covers the immediate aftermath and discusses ongoing recovery efforts and lessons learned from the incident.
Gull Island's Live Wildlife Showcase
Part of the Marine Gallery is a live-feed wildlife camera, providing an up-close look at Gull Island's seabird rookery. This remote-controlled camera allows museum-goers to explore the bustling bird life of Gull Island in real time, right from the museum premises.
Visitors have the unique opportunity to interact with this live-feed wildlife camera, controlling the camera view of Gull Island. This immersive experience offers a close encounter with nature and wildlife without disturbing their natural habitat.
Gull Island, located in Cook Inlet, is a vital nesting site for over 15,000 seabirds. It is home to species like Black-legged Kittiwakes and Common Murres that spend most of the year at sea, returning to the island for their summer nesting cycle.
This live showcase offers a rare chance to observe these species in their natural environment, adding excitement to your museum visit.
Gull Island is owned and managed by Seldovia Native Association, Inc. The Pratt Museum & Park is granted a conditional use permit to place camera equipment on the island for educational and scientific purposes.
Pratt Museum Collections
The Pratt Museum boasts a wide array of collections. Among these is the Fine Art Collection, which houses an extensive range of local art. This collection showcases the region's artistic talent and visually narrates Homer's cultural evolution.
The Historical Collection houses an impressive collection of historic photos and artifacts. This collection offers a glimpse into Homer's past, allowing visitors to traverse the timeline of this charming city.
The Anthropology Collection adds depth to understanding the region's cultural heritage.
The Natural History and Education Collections of the Pratt Museum are equally intriguing. They offer a deep dive into the flora and fauna of the region, making the Museum an ideal destination for nature lovers and students alike.
These archived collections are available to view by appointment only.
Visiting the Pratt Museum: Practical Information
With essential details at your disposal, planning your visit to the Pratt Museum becomes a straightforward affair. The Museum welcomes visitors daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Additionally, group tours or special appointments can be arranged via email, ensuring flexibility for your visit.
The Pratt Museum at located at 3779 Bartlett Street, Homer, Alaska.
Note that the Museum observes a few closed days, including:
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Easter
- Seward's Day
These closures are subject to change, so checking the Museum's schedule before your visit is always a good idea.
The admission fee for the Museum is as follows:
- Adults (ages 13 and above): $15 plus tax
- Alaska residents: $13 plus tax
- Seniors: $13 plus tax
- Family package (two adults and up to three youths ages 6-12): $42 plus tax
- Active Duty Military with ID - Free
The Museum participates in the ROAM Program, which includes admission to member museums throughout the United States.
Summary
From exploring Homer's history and viewing Alaska art collections to experiencing unique wildlife showcases and participating in engaging workshops, the Pratt Museum is a top destination among the things to do in Homer, Alaska. It offers an enriching experience that transcends the typical museum visit, where history, art, and nature blend seamlessly, creating a unique mix of learning and enjoyment.
Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious, the Pratt Museum invites you to embark on this fascinating journey. Don't hesitate—step into this haven of culture and heritage in Homer, Alaska, and create unforgettable memories!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of the Pratt Museum?
The Pratt Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with the option to arrange special appointments via email. The Museum is open to the public at no charge from 4 pm to 6 pm on the First Friday of each month.
Can I interact with the live wildlife showcase at the Pratt Museum?
Yes, you can interact with the live wildlife showcase at the Pratt Museum through a remote-controlled camera that provides a live feed of Gull Island's seabird rookery. This allows visitors to observe and engage with the wildlife in real-time.
Does the Pratt Museum have events and tours?
Yes, the website has a full schedule of free and paid programs.
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