A museum in Los Angeles with one of the largest Indian collections is the subject of a heated debate over its future.

The Southwest Museum of the American Indian has about 240,000 items from tribes all over the Southwest. They are housed in a facility in the Mt. Washington area of the city.

Southwest was on the brink of financial collapse before it was purchased by the Autry National Center, based in another part of Los Angeles. The Autry is now moving part of the massive collection to its site in Griffith Park, much to the objection of local residents who fear the museum will disappear entirely.

The Autry says the Southwest will return, after some major improvements to the building. But only part of the facility will be used as a museum, another sticking point in discussions with local residents.

Despite the disputes, museum advocates say the Southwest collection is receiving better care, museum advocates say. The Autry says some of the items were threatened by mold, mildew and insects, and are finally being preserved properly.

Get the Story:
Southwest Museum's future at heart of tussle (The Los Angeles Times 6/26)
pwday

Relevant Links:
Southwest Museum of the American Indian - http://www.autrynationalcenter.org/southwest