About the Museum

The Museum began with an ambitious community vision: to create a nationally relevant museum on the banks of the Green River—one that would tell the stories of the Green and Colorado Rivers and the people, cultures, and landscapes shaped by them.

Beginning in 1987, members of the Green River community reached out to museum professionals, business leaders, elected officials, and supporters throughout Utah. They built an impressive coalition around the idea of a new museum that would serve both the community and the wider region. Support came from local businesses, state and federal leaders, and even Robert Redford, whose letter must have caused quite a stir when it arrived in Green River.

Betsy Hatt donated the Museum grounds “in memory of Vail Hatt and his commitment to the betterment of the community and tourism.” With funding secured for the approximately $1.5 million project, community leaders gathered at the future Museum site in September 1988 for a groundbreaking ceremony. The occasion included speeches, the national anthem, and—in true Green River fashion—a melon bust.

When the Museum opened in 1990, it represented years of determination and an enormous investment by a small community. Mayor ReyLloyd Hatt envisioned it as a regional center within a “museum corridor” across southeastern Utah. Located at the crossroads of Interstate 70 and Highway 6, the Museum would welcome travelers, introduce them to the region, and encourage them to explore its many communities and cultural institutions.

But the vision extended beyond serving as a visitor center. From the beginning, the Museum was intended to examine the profound influence of the Green and Colorado Rivers on the history, cultures, and landscapes of the region.

Recognizing that this work required support beyond City government, community organizers established the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, Inc. in 2008. This independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit—now doing business as the Friends of John Wesley Powell River History Museum—entered into a formal partnership with the City of Green River. That partnership strengthened the Museum through professional leadership, strategic planning, fundraising, and expanded community support.

In 2015, the Museum renewed its commitment to the river-running community through the River Runners Hall of Fame while expanding its local programs, exhibitions, and efforts to preserve the history of Green River and the surrounding region.

Today, the Museum continues to build upon the vision that began more than three decades ago. We bring together river history, art, science, exploration, and storytelling to deepen understanding of the Colorado Plateau—and to inspire thoughtful stewardship of the places and stories entrusted to us.