The Museum of the Big Bend, situated on the picturesque campus of Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas, has been named the #1 Small Town Museum in the nation according to USA Today’s 10 Best Readers Choice Awards. This prestigious accolade comes after the museum was nominated by a panel of experts and subsequently voted to the top spot by the public. Voting took place daily following the announcement of the top 20 contenders in January, culminating on February 12th.
The museum’s victory is a testament to the strong support it enjoys from the public, who actively participated in the voting process. With a mission to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret the cultural, historic, and natural materials that relate to the prehistory, history, and cultural diversity of the Big Bend region of Texas and Mexico, the Museum of the Big Bend serves as an educational beacon for both the local community and visitors from afar.
The recent expansion of the museum, marked by the inauguration of the Emmett and Miriam McCoy Building, further solidifies its status as a cultural hub. This new addition, designed to complement the historic museum building, introduces enhanced accessibility, additional temporary galleries, and a permanent exhibit space. The Texas Map Research Center, located within the historic building, alongside the Tom Lea gallery dedicated to historic cattle industry paintings, enriches the museum’s offerings.
This accolade from USA Today’s 10 Best Readers Choice Awards highlights the Museum of the Big Bend’s significant role in preserving and showcasing the rich history and culture of the Big Bend region. The Museum Complex, as it is now known, promises an immersive experience for all visitors, combining history, art, and the exploration of nature in a unique setting that celebrates the region’s diverse heritage.
The museum eagerly anticipates welcoming visitors to explore its expanded facilities and to experience firsthand why it has been honored as the top small town museum in the United States. Through its dedication to education, preservation, and cultural enrichment, the Museum of the Big Bend continues to be a treasured institution, not only for the residents of Texas but for all who appreciate the profound stories of our land.
Operating hours for the museum are Tuesday through Saturday, from 10AM to 4PM, closing only on major holidays. For more information, interested parties can reach out to the museum directly at 432-837-8730.
