History in the making: New museum plans revealed
Plans for a new museum in downtown Albany were formally presented last week, with local stakeholders gathering Thursday afternoon to review architectural renderings and discuss next steps for what promises to be a major new attraction for the city.
The museum, which will spotlight the legacies of both the Buffalo Hunters and Buffalo Soldiers who once lived and worked in the Fort Griffin region, will be constructed on the lot just east of the historic T.E. Jackson Warehouse. Local rancher and historian Cliff Teinert is spearheading the project, working with a group of community advisors and architect Jeff Garnett, who recently relocated to Albany. Garnett’s design draws on the materials and proportions of surrounding buildings, including the neighboring T.E. Jackson structure, the oldest wooden building in town.
A dual narrative
The museum will focus equally on the stories of the Buffalo Hunters and the Buffalo Soldiers—two groups whose histories are deeply connected to Fort Griffin and the surrounding area.
“Each has their own story,” Teinert said during the meeting. “But visitors will be able to experience both stories at the same time.”
In addition to permanent and rotating exhibits, the museum will also feature a rare gun room, displaying an extensive collection of 19th-century firearms—including Sharps rifles, famously used during the buffalo hunting era. This highly secure space will double as a walk-in vault and be open to the public during regular hours.
Statues representing a Buffalo Soldier and a Buffalo Hunter will be placed at different locations along the building’s exterior to guide visitors into the museum and underscore the dual focus of the exhibit.
Teinert also shared plans for a 50-by-90-foot metal building to be constructed at the rear of the property. This separate structure will house larger artifacts such as wagons, ambulances, and stagecoaches, and will include an open event space with a stage and room for gatherings of 100 or more guests.
The new museum will also connect to the T.E. Jackson building, which will be used for kitchen access during catered events and serve as additional event space when needed. All land involved is being donated by Lynne and Cliff Teinert.
Designed for education
and tourism
In addition to its exhibition spaces, the facility is envisioned as an educational resource for local and regional schools and an additional draw for heritage tourism. Teinert and others noted that school tours, special programming, and integration with local events like the Fort Griffin Fandangle could help connect younger generations with the region’s rich history.
“This is going to be a real enhancement for Albany,” said Steve Waller, one of the project’s advisors. “It complements what’s already here —the Old Jail Art Center, the Fandangle— and adds another reason for people to spend time in our community.”
There is also potential for the space to serve broader purposes, such as hosting conferences, large events, or programs focused on ranching, conservation, or water use—topics closely tied to the region’s history and economy.
Fundraising underway
The museum is being developed under the umbrella of Fort Griffin Buffalo Hunters, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. That designation allows all donations to be tax-deductible as charitable contributions.
Fundraising efforts are now underway, with the advisory group working to finalize exhibits, develop campaign materials, and secure early support from those connected to Albany’s heritage. Construction is expected to take between seven and twelve months once funding is in place.
Teinert and the advisory team are currently preparing a campaign package—including architectural renderings, a proposed budget, and operating projections—to help build momentum and guide the project forward.
“This is about telling the full story,” Teinert said. “The stories of two groups who helped shape this region, and who deserve to be remembered.”
Details on how to contribute or donate to the museum will be announced soon, with more information to be released in the coming weeks.
