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Close up of a Native American basket.

Black Ash Baskets: A Local Collection

March 15 – June 29, 2025


On view in the Gothic Gallery, this exhibition features more than four dozen baskets by Native makers from the remarkable collection of Kirsten Buckstaff, a local resident. Her extensive collection primarily includes Black Ash works by Ho-Chunk makers, but it also holds pieces by Menominee, Ojibwe, and other Indigenous people.

A highlight of Buckstaff’s collection is four baskets by Mary Day, who lived in Oshkosh. Day was Prairie Band Potawatomi, and she learned basket-making from her Ho-Chunk mother-in-law. Working in her home, she crafted exquisite baskets with a variety of styles and purposes.

The Black Ash baskets in the exhibition are complemented by a handful of Native items made from other natural materials, including pine needles, jute, and Birch bark.

Daily Admission

March 15–June 29, 2025

Admission includes viewing the mansion, gardens, and art exhibitions


Tuesday–Sunday
11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Reservations recommended

$12 Adults
$7 Youth
Free for Paine Members
Free for children under 4


Closed Sunday, April 20, in recognition of Easter.

View Details

Mother’s Day

Enjoy free admission to the Paine mansion and gardens in celebration of Mother’s Day


Sunday, May 11
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Reservations not necessary

Festival of Spring

Enjoy free admission to the mansion and gardens during Festival of Spring


Saturday, May 17
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Reservations not necessary

Become a Member Now!

Paine Members receive free or reduced admission to the mansion, gardens, and art exhibitions for an entire year. Members also enjoy viewing exhibitions before the general public, invitations to special events, and more perks! Join as a Member today to start receiving benefits immediately.