Visit Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks

From time to time, I enjoy giving you a sneak peek of life in the Ozarks.

Because I cherish these old hills and hollows in this beautiful niche known as “God’s Country,” I sometimes share slice-of-life vignettes, as well as must-dos when visiting our area.

Often, my newsletter subscribers are privy to this content first. (Not part of my newsletter family? Let’s remedy that! Please sign up in the sidebar and join us for the fun!) 🙂

Now—let’s sip a cup of cyber coffee, munch a chocolate donut, and briefly tour one of my fave places.

Here we go!

Known as one of the Ozarks’ “best kept secrets,” Ralph Foster Museum on the College of the Ozarks campus is a must if you’re heading our way.

As a former student and now an alumnus of C of O (known as Hard Work U), I’ve had the opportunity to tour the museum dozens of times, and I can honestly say, I never tire of it. With three floors of antiques and collectibles, dolls, weapons, various exhibits, and Ozarks-related displays, there’s literally something for everyone. Admission is minimal (I get in free because I’m a lifetime alumni member.) You will absolutely love the eclectic mix of artifacts and Ozarks’ eye candy.

Photos aren’t permitted in the art galleries, but they’re permissible everywhere else.

There are restrooms, elevators, and a small gift shop. Wear comfy walking shoes and arrive early. You’ll want to allow several hours to peruse and wander the floors because there’s a TON to see and experience.

When you finish at the museum, be sure and tour the rest of the college campus and stop in for an end-of-the-day culinary treat at the fabulous Keeter Center, voted #1 by Trip Advisor as one of the Top 25 Small Hotels in the Nation.

The original Beverly Hillbillies’ Truck from the 1960s television sitcom

Interesting collection of antique clocks

Beautiful antique pipe organ

Unusual, but ohh so lovely black amethyst

Depression glass in various shades of blue

A little something on hand for medicinal purposes

At 10, Brenda Lee made her television debut on Ozark Jubilee in Springfield, Missouri.

One of the many weapon collections at Ralph Foster Museum

We’ve come a long way in medicine.

A bit of history…

A hall tree from the personal collection of Theodore Roosevelt

Ozarks’ artifacts

Music… A big part of Ozarks’ history

There’s much more to see at Ralph Foster Museum than what I can possibly show you in a single blog post so I hope you’ll stop by as you travel through the area.

Fun, informative, and best bargain EVER.

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