Museum of the Southwest

Mission: To immerse its visitors in experiences that will transform their universe and reveal new possibilities.

Founded in 1965, opened in 1966 and in the historic Turner Mansion since 1968, the Museum of the Southwest has spent almost fifty years serving the Midland and West Texas communities by producing exhibitions, programs and events about science, art, astronomy, archaeology, history and culture. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1992, the Museum of the Southwest is also a member of the Texas Association of Museums, the West Texas Triangle and the Midland Chamber of Commerce.

The Museum of the Southwest inspires discovery, interaction and exploration of art, science, culture and history, enriching the lives of people of all ages. We believe in the power of these disciplines to ignite the imagination, stimulate thought and provide enjoyment through our collections, exhibitions, programs and events.

Volunteers help in a variety of ways across our Museum Campus.  All volunteers are screened in advance and all volunteer opportunities are scheduled in advance.  We do not have the capacity to accept volunteers on a walk-in basis.