Last updated: 12/13/2014
Lewistown, Montana
Address
408 N.E. Main StreetLewistown, MT 59457

Hours

Memorial weekend through Labor Day
Daily
10 AM - 4 PM

Staff

Shirley Barrick
phone: 406-535-9289
e-mail:
Description

You're most welcome to sit a spell and thumb through our extensive collections of photographs and local history books of Central Montana’s communities or view educational media in electronic format. A variety of books, memorabilia, musical CDs, videos and locally made products are for sale in the store area located near the front door.

The area’s history is chronologically portrayed beginning in the 1870’s when the area was largely unsettled and buffalo roamed the open prairies. Our museum features many photos and displays portraying the changes that resulted as many settlers from all walks of life came to this area and filed on homesteads. Also on exhibit are a variety of collections (dolls, hats, wedding dresses, fire arms, forts, fossils, historic replicas and dioramas, Indian artifacts, medical equipment and photos from St. Joseph’s Hospital, military, photos, musical instruments, and many others) and displays with interpretation featuring some of the area’s most notorious characters:

- Rattlesnake Jake Owens (outlaw)

- Charles M. Russell (cowboy/famous artist)

- Granville Stuart (cattleman/Vigilante leader)

- Bertie Brown (moonshine entrepreneur/rancher)

- William Culver (photographer)

- Ed McGivern (sign maker/pistol fast draw exhibitionist/world record maker)

- Charlie Cooley (businessman/civic leader)

- Tom Toomey (saddle maker)

- Jimmy Kaaro (circus performer/trick roper/animal trainer/lawman)

- Jane Burnett Smith (bronc rider/stunt rider/author)

Mission

Our mission is to collect, preserve and exhibit artifacts and material items which depict the cultural aspects of Central Montana, beginning with the first inhabitants of the area. Through interpretation, it is our hope to portray their lifestyles and preserve the existence of the historical communities throughout the area for the education and enjoyment of this and future generations.

Educational Programs

Our displays are ever-changing as we strive to make each visit unique and memorable. We sure hope that you'll stop in and explore Central Montana's past. We'd be mighty obliged, too, if you'd encourage your friends and acquaintances to visit us as well.

Our displays are ever-changing as we strive to make each visit unique and memorable. We sure hope that you'll stop in and explore Central Montana's past. We'd be mighty obliged, too, if you'd encourage your friends and acquaintances to visit us as well.

Governance

The museum is administered by the Central Montana Historical Association, a non-profit group

Services

Tours may be arranged during the off season by contacting Shirley Barrick at 406/535-9289.

Group Tours
Exhibitions
Museum Events
DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

MUSEUM CONFERENCES

Museum Trustee Association Spring Forum 2024

April 10 - 14, 2024

Atlanta, Georgia

Texas Association of Museums 2024 Lubock Annual Conference

April 14 - 17, 2024

Lubbock, Texas

2024 Colorado-Wyoming ANNUAL MEETING

May 1 - 4, 2024

Worland, Wyoming

West Virginia Association of Museums 2024 Conference

June 6 - 8, 2024

Shepherdstown, West Virginia

RECENT UPDATES

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03/07 ConservArt Inc.

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Museum Associations

03/07 South Carolina Federation of Museums

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