The Turtle (Native American Center for the Living Arts) in Niagara Falls, New York

The Native American Center for the Living Arts, colloquially known as the "Turtle Building," was designed by Dennis Sun Rhodes and Duffy Wilson to resemble a turtle, a significant figure in Haudenosaunee creation stories. Constructed in Niagara Falls, New York, this postmodern structure served as a vital hub for Indigenous culture from 1977 to 1981. For fifteen years, it hosted various cultural events and displayed hundreds of Indigenous artifacts and artworks, earning recognition as the largest institution of its kind in the US. Sadly, the center closed in 1995 due to a lack of funding, leading to the building's sale and subsequent abandonment. A campaign called "Reawaken the Turtle" is now striving to revive the cultural center and prevent its demolition for commercial development. The building's prime location opposite Niagara Falls State Park makes it a tempting target for developers. In recognition of its significance, The Turtle was named one of "America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places" in 2025. It was also deemed eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 2024, though official designation is pending owner involvement. Visiting The Turtle offers a unique opportunity to engage with American history and potentially its future. Its fate remains uncertain as efforts continue to preserve this important cultural landmark.