In a recent government meeting, significant updates were shared regarding the future of the underground exhibit at the Mound House, following extensive evaluations and consultations with local tribes. The staff has recommended the permanent closure of the underground exhibit due to severe damage from recent hurricanes, which has led to flooding, erosion, and risks to confirmed Seminole ancestral burials in the vicinity.
The decision to close the exhibit was made in collaboration with the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, emphasizing the importance of ethical and cultural considerations in museum practices. Staff members consulted with various experts, including archaeologists and tribal representatives, who supported the recommendation to close the exhibit.
This closure will allow the museum to redirect resources towards developing sustainable educational exhibits across its 2.787-acre site. Plans include new displays that address critical issues such as climate change, cultural continuity, and best practices in cultural heritage stewardship. The museum aims to collaborate with tribal partners and academic institutions to reinterpret the site using updated data.
Additionally, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for collection preservation, with plans to repurpose an existing exhibit space into a dedicated collection storage room. This initiative underscores the museum's commitment to safeguarding its collections while enhancing educational outreach and community engagement.