About the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
Texas's Largest History Museum
Founded in 1921 by faculty and students of West Texas State Teachers College and area supporters, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society operates the largest history museum in the state of Texas. The museum opened its permanent location on April 14, 1933, on the campus of West Texas A&M University in Canyon, just south of Amarillo. Spanning more than 285,000 square feet, the museum houses over three million artifacts dedicated to preserving the history of pioneer life and natural history in the West Texas region, welcoming 70,000 visitors annually.
The museum's permanent exhibits feature an impressive variety of collections including American Western life and agriculture artifacts, paleontology and geology specimens, Native American art and artifacts, antique firearms, historic vehicles, decorative arts and furniture, petroleum industry artifacts, sports memorabilia, and textiles. Scattered throughout the massive facility are several exhibits dedicated to the Red River War, displaying countless military objects such as rifles, bullet shells, uniforms, and horseshoes alongside Native American artifacts including headdresses, pottery, and leather goods.
Outside the main building, visitors can explore Pioneer Town, an outdoor exhibit featuring authentic historic structures including a livery, saloon, schoolhouse, and pioneer cabin that bring the frontier experience to life. Following a $5.8 million renovation in 2001, the museum continues to serve as the primary repository for understanding the unique history, culture, and natural heritage of the Texas Panhandle region.
Plan Your Visit
The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is located at 2503 4th Ave on the campus of West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas, approximately 15 miles south of Amarillo. When open, summer hours (June-August) are Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 1-6 p.m. Winter hours (September-May) are Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on major holidays. Please check their website at www.panhandleplains.org for current operating status and admission information before planning your visit.
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