2025 Collections Acquisition Announcement
In recognition of what would have been the 109th birthday of Joan Roberts Ligon, the Seminole Nation Museum is pleased to announce its 2025 collections acquisitions, made possible through the Joan Roberts Ligon Collections Endowment.
Established in 2013, the endowment honors Joan Roberts Ligon’s lifelong dedication to the Seminole Nation Museum and to the preservation of Seminole history and culture. Through this fund, the Museum continues to strengthen its permanent collection by acquiring significant works of art that reflect the cultural traditions, histories, and lived experiences of the Seminole people and other Native communities.
This year, three important artworks have been added to the Museum’s collection, which now comprises more than 1,600 objects and works of art. The 2025 acquisitions are:
Headache Treatment
Enoch Kelly Haney (Seminole), 1972
Gouache on matboard
A compelling depiction of a traditional Seminole medicine man administering sacred healing practices, emphasizing the enduring role of Indigenous knowledge and spiritual medicine.
Peace Pipe Ceremony
Fred Beaver (Muscogee), 1973
Gouache on watercolor board
Rendered in Beaver’s distinctive flat-style composition, this work portrays a ceremonial figure holding a peace pipe, symbolizing unity, respect, and cultural continuity among Native nations.
first light
Benjamin Harjo, Jr. (Seminole), 1981
Ink pen and acrylic on watercolor paper
A restrained and evocative portrait focusing on a Native man’s face emerging from darkness, reflecting themes of identity, presence, and spiritual awakening.
Joan Roberts Ligon was a founding member of the Seminole Nation Historical Society in 1973 and served as the Museum’s Registrar for more than three decades. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in organizing, preserving, and documenting thousands of artifacts and artworks. Her commitment to education, cultural preservation, and historical stewardship continues to shape the mission and legacy of the Seminole Nation Museum.
Headache Treatment (above)
Peace Pipe Ceremony (left)
first light (below)
Collections Endowment
These acquisitions stand as a tribute to her enduring impact and to the Museum’s ongoing dedication to preserving and sharing Seminole heritage for future generations.
Contributions to the Collections Endowment Fund may be made by clicking the button below.
