Since 1885, the Museum's collections of anthropological, archaeological and ethnographic objects have prompted visitors and scholars to broaden their understanding of human behavior, past and present.

The permanent exhibition gallery focuses on Native American cultures from across North America and Missouri history from 11,200 years ago to the present.

In addition to the North American collections, the museum has ethnographic materials and artifacts from all over the world. One of the largest collections is from Africa with items representing the work of the Masai, Turkana, Falasha, Hausa, Kikuyu, Niam Niam, Somali, and Berber peoples. These include garments, ornaments, musical instruments, basketry, vessels, tools, hunting equipment, weaponry, head rests, and masks. Special collections from Africa include the Sutton Collection - collected in the early 20th century from Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, and Nigeria - and the Ives Collection, with pieces dating from the turn of the 20th century. The Ives Collection contains several magnificent ebonies as well as a variety of other cultural pieces from across the African continent.

Also among the global collections are items from across Asia, South America, Oceania, the Middle East, and Europe. The Bussabarger Collection, which focuses on India, includes several time periods of works that reflect the deities, epics, and home life of the Indian people.

The museum's global collections do not have a permanent display space but are occasionally on special exhibit in our rotating exhibit room.