History

In 1973, a small group of enthusiastic citizens met and soon became Museum, Inc., a non-profit corporation. The main purpose ‘shall be the recovery of and preservation of historical culture of the Lincoln County area…’, but the immediate need was a place to house the historical collection of the late Roy Porter.

On April 28, 1975, a meeting was held at the Lincoln County Library to discuss building plans of the Heritage Museum. Various ideas and building methods were presented. In the end, plans were made to build a twelve sided, 130 foot diameter log structure.

On June 3, 1978, the Heritage Museum opened, manned by volunteers. From the felling of the first tree, hauling of the logs, peeling, chinking, decking the room, pouring concrete and building exhibits, the support has been wonderful. The cooperation of hundreds of people, mainly volunteers, is thrilling.

Special grants and assistance from the Montana Bicentennial Commission, a Bicentennial levy from the Lincoln County Board of commissioners, the St. Regis Co., the Montana Arts Council, the U.S. Forest Service, private businesses, individuals and numerous fund raisers helped bring the Heritage Museum to life. Continuing success has been made possible by fundraisers, the Montana Historical Society, IMLS, private businesses and individuals.