Traditional Flutes in Ute Culture with Aldean Ketchum by Moab Museum Staff
Photo courtesy of
Aldean Ketchum
Aldean Ketchum, a featured artist in the Breaking 100 Years of Silence exhibition, learned to make and play traditional flutes from his grandfather, a tradition he has carried on for over forty years. Join the Moab Museum in an evening with Aldean on March 6th at 6 pm, as he discusses the importance of the flute in healing and Ute tradition, demonstrates his process of flute making, and shares songs.
About the artist: Aldean “Lightning Hawk” Ketchum is a Ute from White Mesa, Utah. Aldean had been a Ute Bear Dance Chief in White Mesa for over 30 years and a traditional Ute flute maker and player. He has worked with the Utah Opera Company, and was a part of the 2002 Winter Olympics representing the Ute tribe. He has participated in Utah Fine Arts Artist in Residence program for the State of Utah. Aldean traveled to Germany and Austria representing the Ute tribe as a flute player and storyteller. He has shared his flute music for over 40 years; through workshops, concerts, and classes. He shares his flutes’ healing power with anyone in need. It gives peace, healing, clarity, and calmness.
Aldean enjoys carving his flutes, drawing, painting, singing, playing his flutes, and spoiling his grandchildren.
This program is free with admission or membership to the Museum. We currently offer free admission for all students in Grand County, including the Heron School, Grand County School District, and the Moab Charter School, as well as SNAP EBT and WIC card holders. You can find a free admission pass at the Grand County Public Library, valid for programs and admission alike.
From Uranium Mines to Red Rock Tourism
Image courtesy of the Moab Museum from a Rangers at the Museum talk led by Ranger Anderson in 2023.
Ranger Anderson of the National Park Service down here in Southeast Utah will be discussing how Moab’s economic focus evolved from uranium mining to outdoor recreation and tourism in a program at the Moab Information Center titled “From Uranium Mines to Red Rock Tourism.” Hosted in collaboration with the Moab Museum, National Park Service, and Canyonlands Natural History Association, this free program will take place on Thursday March 12 at 6 PM.
Ranger Anderson has delivered talks at the Museum in previous years as part of the “Rangers at the Museum” summer series, previously focusing on the political establishment of Canyonlands National Park.
“So much of what Moab’s economy is today was made possible by the uranium booms and busts,” says Programs Director, Megan Vickery. “Mining roads carved out during the boom became some of our most popular recreation trails, prospectors looking for riches became tour guides and outfitters, and when the population quadrupled, organizers established long-lasting community centers and infrastructure, from sidewalks to the library (to the Moab Museum!). We’re excited to partner with NPS and the MIC to share this essential element of Moab’s history.”
With the current exhibition “U92: Moab’s Uranium Legacy” wrapping up in April 2026, the Museum team is excited to continue the conversation about the impact of the industry on the mainstay of Moab’s present economy: tourism, and specifically, enjoyment of public lands.
Punxsutawney Phil Was Correct! Winter is Still Here!
The Museum’s Annual Gala features incredible pieces of art and experiences from all around the Four Corners region! Don’t miss out – Grab your tickets for the event on March 26th!
From hands-on cultural programming and behind-the-scenes tours to our most anticipated annual fundraiser, March offers meaningful ways to connect with Moab’s layered history.
On March 10, the Native Students Club will host a cradleboard workshop at the Museum, creating space for intergenerational learning and cultural continuity. Programs like this reflect the Museum’s ongoing commitment to centering Indigenous voices and supporting opportunities for community-led education.
Behind the scenes, an exciting upgrade has just been completed at the Museum’s Collections Storage Facility: the installation of new compact shelving. This major investment significantly improves how we preserve and care for thousands of objects, photographs, and archival materials entrusted to the Museum. By increasing storage capacity and strengthening long-term preservation conditions, compact shelving ensures that Moab’s stories remain accessible for generations to come. Curious to see it in action? Sign up for the next Collections Storage Facility Tour on March 11 at 10:30 am to get a firsthand look at the improvements and learn more about collections stewardship.
On March 12, history will take center stage in two ways. The installation of a new Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Trail sign will further illuminate the stories of the Black soldiers who served in the region, expanding public understanding of their role in shaping the landscapes and infrastructure of the American West. That same day, National Park Service Ranger Anderson will present at the Moab Information Center (MIC), offering additional insight into regional history and interpretation. Ranger Anderson’s talk “From Uranium Roads to Recreation Economy” is FREE and kicks off at 6 pm.
The highlight of the month arrives on Thursday, March 26, with the Moab Museum’s 2026 Annual Gala at The Hoodoo Moab. This year’s celebration leans fully into the spirit of Moab’s early days—when fortunes were made, legends grew taller by the telling, and the line between outlaw and entrepreneur was often blurred. Guests will step into an evening inspired by high-style saloon glamour: sneaky, sparkling, and just a little gritty.
The Gala will feature a lively cocktail hour, immersive historical touches, and an exciting live auction showcasing one-of-a-kind experiences and regional partnerships. From curated travel packages to behind-the-scenes adventures, auction proceeds directly support the Museum’s exhibitions, collections care, and educational programming during this semiquincentennial year. Costumes and creative dress are encouraged; think velvet, vests, feathers, fringe, or your most dashing frontier formalwear.
More than a party, the Gala is the Museum’s single most important fundraising event of the year. It is an opportunity for the community to invest in the preservation and interpretation of our shared history while enjoying an unforgettable evening together. Tickets are available at moabmuseum.org, and early reservations are encouraged!
Whether you’re attending a workshop, touring the collections, marking a new interpretive milestone, or donning your finest frontier flair, March offers many ways to engage with the Moab Museum and the stories that continue to shape this remarkable place.
