Honoring the Legacy of The Indian Craft Shop
May 19, 2025 | People Spotlights, Property Spotlights
After over 87 years of celebrating and promoting American Indian arts, Guest Services will no longer be operating The Indian Craft Shop and will have its final day of business on June 6. For generations, the Shop has been a beloved cultural gem inside the U.S. Department of the Interior, connecting visitors with authentic Native American art, jewelry, and traditions from across the country.
Founded in 1938 and managed by Guest Services, Inc. since its inception, the Shop has served as more than a retail space, providing a hub for learning, cultural appreciation, and human connection. Whether you were a first-time visitor, a long-time regular, or even a third-generation supporter, The Indian Craft Shop became part of countless personal journeys and family traditions.
Join Our Final Celebrations
As part of its farewell, the Shop is hosting two Open House Celebrations. The first, held on May 8, welcomed guests for an afternoon of connection, shared memories, and celebration. Attendees enjoyed cake and refreshments in the sculpture garden behind the Shop.
During the event, Guest Services President & CEO Nico Foris and Michael “Mick” Rusten, Director of Facilities and Administration for the Office of the Secretary, had the honor of cutting the ceremonial cake. (Photo by Susan Schramm)
The final celebration will take place on Thursday, May 22, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and all are invited to stop by, wear their favorite pieces collected over the years, and join in recognizing the community the Shop has fostered for generations.
Visitors can also take part in a blowout sale from May 20 to May 30, featuring the last of the Shop’s beautiful and unique inventory as one final chance to take home a meaningful treasure from this historic space.
Honoring Susan Pourian’s 42-Year Legacy
The closing coincides with the retirement of Susan Pourian, who has worked for Guest Services for an incredible 42 years — managing the shop, as district manager in specialty retail, working special events, and even in Marketing at the corporate office. Coming full circle to directing the Shop, her legacy is one of deep knowledge, tireless dedication, and unwavering support for Native artists and their stories. Her passion has shaped the Shop into the remarkable place it is today.
“Let’s take this time to celebrate the many years of special arts, people, experiences, and shop connections,” the Shop team shared in their recent newsletter. “This is indeed a time to have a look back and celebrate.”
Looking Ahead with Hope
As the Department of the Interior works to identify a new operator for the Shop, there is hope that another entity will carry the baton forward and continue to showcase American Indian arts for another 87 years to come.
Guest Services, Inc. extends heartfelt gratitude to the Shop’s dedicated team, its talented artists, the Department of the Interior, and every visitor who has helped make The Indian Craft Shop a vibrant and meaningful part of our shared history.