This village features eight buildings in playhouse scale that emulate structures that would have been typical in prairie settlements in the late 1800s. Kids will love going back in time and have fun playing in and exploring these buildings including a miniature school house, grocery store and settler’s cabins!

Through this exhibit, the Heard hopes to continue to connect visitors to the history of the prairie and also its ecological significance. Less than 1% of the Blackland Prairie remains, making the tallgrass prairie the most-endangered large ecosystem in North America.

School teachers: check website for special pricing for groups and guided-tour opportunities.

This exhibit is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members. Not a member? Join today by clicking here.

Educational Resources

"Post Oak Savannah and Blackland Prairie Wildlife Management: Historical Perspective" - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

"Texas Blackland Prairies" - World Wildlife Foundation

"Texas Eco-Regions: Blackland Prairie" - Texas A&M Forest Service

Plants recommended for the Blackland Prairie - Wildflower Center

"General Background on the Blackland Prairie for Teachers" - Austin College

Blackland Prairies Dirty Dozen Invasive Plants - Texas Invasives

"A Prairie in Pieces" - Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine

This exhibit is included in general admission and free for Heard Museum members. Not a member? Join today by clicking here.