Cultures of the Pacific
The Department of Anthropology at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago collects, safeguards, and investigates the arts, crafts, and other sources of information testifying in unmistakable and often remarkable ways to how creative human beings are, and always have been, everywhere on earth.
Our collections are material witness to both the reality and rich textures of our ancient and modern human diversity.
They also serve today as an enduring and inspiring heritage resource for many people in many lands throughout the world.
The Pacific anthropology collections at the Field Museum are among the finest and most informative in any museum or comparable institution.
Numbering over 65,000 cataloged items, these collections richly document life, history, and human originality throughout the far-flung Pacific Islands, and Australia.
Chicago's Marae
On the upper floor of the Field, you can find Ruatepupuke II, a complete Māori meeting house from the 19th century. This building is of great importance both artistically and culturally, and taking care of it is considered a great honor. The gallery surrounding it and the marae (a traditional Māori meeting place) are also considered essential components of the mission to preserve Māori culture.
A marae is more than just a physical place; it’s a grassy outdoor area that is considered sacred. In New Zealand, a marae is a special space where the past and present come together. It’s a place to honor ancestors while looking toward the future.
In Māori culture, a marae is referred to as a "turangawaewae," meaning “place to stand.” It’s a place where people can confidently share their thoughts and be respected, even if they hold different opinions. Essentially, a marae is a place where people gather to meet, discuss differences, and find common ground.
In Chicago, there is a Māori meeting house and a sacred marae, but there is no local Māori community to care for them. While some Māori visitors come to Chicago, a community of Māori people who share the same background and purpose is missing. This creates both a challenge and an opportunity to find new ways to keep this special place “warm,” which is important to the Māori culture.
The responsibility to help preserve Ruatepupuke’s heritage is shared with the people of Tokomaru Bay.
Use of the Collection
Some items in the Field Museum collections are available to loan for exhibition, research, or education in support of our mission: fighting climate change, preserving biodiversity, celebrating cultures, and championing science.
