Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center

Home History & Culture Culture Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center

COVID-19 INFORMATION

The Chachalu Story

Chachalu tells the story of the Tribes and Bands of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and honor our Elders who kept Tribal traditions and dreams alive during the years of Termination. It is a center where the Tribe’s Restoration is celebrated and our culture is being revitalized.

The Yamhill Kalapuya people called this place Chachalu, which translates to "place of the burnt timbers"; a massive forest fire burned through the Grand Ronde Valley shortly before the time of Relocation in 1856.

This vision of the Museum is to tell the story of the resiliency of the land and of the people who have lived here since time immemorial. The land, once devastated by fire, is now revitalized with healthy forests and abundant wildlife. Our salmon have once again returned to our streams; the Grand Ronde people, once uprooted from their various homelands and then Terminated by the federal government, are renewed through Restoration. This is a center for cultural activity where the Tribe’s stories, history, and culture continue to be practiced and shared.

Hours of operation

Tuesday - Saturday: 10AM to 4PM

American Museum of Natural History Internship 

Eligibility: 

  • Current high school sophomore, junior, or senior
  • Grand Ronde tribal member
  • Oregon Resident
  • GPA of at least a 2.5 (accumulative) or 3.0 in previous term
  • Good attendance record (fewer than 4 unexcused absences in the previous term)
  • Good behavior (student must demonstrate maturity and good decision making skills – students who have had any discipline referrals in the past 3 months must submit an appeal to have their application read) 

Commitment: 

  • Student must commit to being present throughout the entire internship experience
  • Student must be willing to present to the Grand Ronde community following the Internship. 

Application Packet 2023