Bitterroot
Historian S u m m e r 2 0 1 9 - Vo l . 2 I s s u e 1
Ravalli County Museum - Sharing History Every Day
“The Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky” ANNUAL
36 th
Sat u rd ay, Oc t obe r 5t h Ha m i lton , M T
BIT TERROOT VALLEY
TIRES • WHEELS • BATTERIES • BRAKES • SHOCKS • ALIGNMENT • SUSPENSIONS
HELPING YOU MAKE HISTORY SINCE 1952 Best Tire Value PROMISE FREE WITH EVERY PASSENGER CAR AND LIGHT TRUCK TIRE PURCHASE
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Free Peace of Mind Tire Protection Whatever the road throws at you—from potholes to nails—if your tire is damaged from any road hazard we will replace the value of your tire. • If your tire is damaged beyond repair we’ll replace its value • Our workmanship is guaranteed for the life of your tires • We offer free pre-trip safety checks
STEVENSVILLE
Harper’s Bitterroot Valley Tire Center 4026 Highway 93 North in Stevensville
406.777.4667
M – F: 8 AM – 6 PM • Sat: 8 AM – 5 PM
HAMILTON
Jerry Wessels Tire Center 211 North 1st St. in Hamilton
406.363.3884
M – F: 8 AM – 6 PM • Sat: 8 AM – 5 PM
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BIT TERROOT VALLEY
In This Issue 4
Features:
Biggest Bake Sale under The Big Sky
The 15 Visit Historic
Apple Day fund-raiser, Farmers Market, Bake Sale – for the Ravalli County Museum. Oct. 5 9 am
5
Daly Mansion Weddings, Events, Tours. The Home of a King
Liquid Apple Night
17 Join the Chamber
Hard cider fest at the Museum You keep the glass. Oct. 5 at 5
We love living, working and playing in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley.
6 Ravalli County Museum
20 Victor Heritage Museum
Apple History in the Root. Museums are the perfect places for curious minds...
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A Community Affair
22 Discover Darby
Vintage Bike Raffle
From Huckleberries to Hats
Win a Custom Restored Sears Vintage Bicycle. Join, Enter, Win, Ride. Support the Museum
From River to Ridge© magazine is published by Tour Montana©/Gift Montana© Publisher, Eric Elander tourmontana@gmail.com Editor, Jeanette Hunter Assistant Editor, Patsy Simonson Special thanks to: Ravalli County Museum, Joann Hosko, Colleen Meyers, Phil Connelly, Tamar Stanley, Sara Monson Contents copyrighted by SP2M Marketing, LLC©, all rights reserved.
Mary’s Mission 28 St.& Museum The Apple tree still bears fruit at 150 years of age.
THIS IS HIGHERGROUND BREWING Co.
On Highway 93 in Hamilton Mon-Sat 11 AM–8 PM, Sun 1–8 PM • HighergroundBrewery.com • 406.375.204 Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
“The Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky”
Apple Pie|Caramel Apples|Apple Butter|Apple Cider|Steak Kabobs BBQ Pork with Apple Chutney|Silent Auction|Raffle|Live Music Kid’s Activities|Art, Crafts & Produce from over 180 Vendors!
Saturday, October 5th
9am to 3pm
at Ravalli County Museum 4
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Hard Cider • Delicious Food • Live Music ANNUAL
5pm - 9pm
at Ravalli County Museum Enjoy yourself under the twinkle lights with a glass of delicious cider created by cider makers from all over the Rocky Mountain northwest. Your entrance fee covers a beautiful Liquid Apple Night commemorative glass for sampling. You must be 21 or older to sample ciders.
M U S E U M
Saturday, October 5th Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society 205 Bedford Hamilton, MT • 406.363.3338 • ravallimuseum.org •
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Apple Day - Making History Taste Great Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky From 1866 - 1924, investors coming into Montana from as far as Chicago and New York, were buying up parcels of land to grow crops of McIntosh Apples. These juicy, red fruits were known to grow very well in the Bitterroot Valley, but not in other places. Because of their tartness, McIntosh apples were known far and wide to be one of the best apples for pies. By 1924, many orchards had gone out of business due to hail damage, frost, and irrigation issues leading to crop failures. However, the fame of “Montana Macs� endures today through a few local orchards that survived and thrived, and through McIntosh Apple Day.
Live Music, Raffle, Prizes, Pies
Join us Saturday, October 5, 2019! Hailed as the Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky, the Annual McIntosh Apple Day Festival is not one to be missed. Enjoy arts, crafts, food & produce from our local Hamilton Farmers Market as well as new vendors from outside the area. The highlight of the day is our signature Bake Sale. Handpicked, locally grown Apples are lovingly crafted into made-from-scratch Apple pies. Beef Kabobs, Caramel Apples and our famous Apple Butter are also main highlights. Purchase raffle tickets to get the chance to win from over 100 raffle items, donated by the vendors and other local businesses. Sign up for the silent auction and enjoy live entertainment. See you Saturday October 5th, 9am - 3pm.
600 made-from-scratch Pies made by the best Pie makers in the Valley!
8,000 of the nicest, friendliest, best looking History Lovers in whole State!
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Liquid Apple - Celebrating the Future! Cider History Since Julius Caesar, around 55 BC, Cider consumption has become a popular means of socializing and entertainment In 1620, apple seeds were brought to the New World from England and were planted in North America for the first time. Cider was introduced as a medicinal tonic but was found to be an intoxicating elixir. In 1796, John Adams stated that drinking a tankard of cider every morning would settle ones stomach and would prevent gas. Almost one hundred years later the medical concept still had people believing that “Eating an apple on going to bed and you’ll keep the Dr. from earning his bread.” Cider always had a reputation as being medicinal, but drinking cider socially was becoming more popular. The Prohibition Era in the 1920’s introduced mass distribution of cider through rail transport and advanced bottling technology. Cider in Montana, over the years has made an impact with its flavorful tastes and classifications. Here in the Bitterroot valley, with the burgeoning of apple tree farms, cider has made its mark. The Ravalli County Museum feels it is an important part of our agricultural history to bring cideries together to share the exquisite tastes and uniqueness with the public. Along with our Annual Apple Day, Liquid Apple Night brings a new highlight to the cider world in the Bitterroot. This family-friendly event is held under twinkling lights, with local music and cideries from around the Rocky Mountain Northwest. Check our website for details. See you Saturday October 5th, 5pm -9pm.
Hard Cider • Delicious Food • Live Music ANNUAL
M U S E U M
Ravalli County Museum
& Historical Society
Saturday, Oct. 5th 5pm - 9pm at Ravalli County Museum
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Make a Date with History!
A Note from the Director:
Tamar Stanley
Museums are the perfect places for curious minds... The Ravalli County Museum is the cultural hub of the Bitter Root Valley. Inside our chambers, galleries and halls you see genuine artifacts, educational collections and objects of the past - “up close and personal.” As you wander through the exhibits and attend educational programs and activities, it is an opportunity to gain a fuller understanding of diverse lifestyles and times. Learn more about a favorite subject or spark an interest in unfamiliar topics. You will have a chance to share your knowledge and experience with other visitors as you explore. Here at the Museum, you can see historic photos from our extensive archive collection, and view objects that people actually used 100 or 200 years ago. Enjoy a glimpse into the experiences and realities of the days gone by that shaped who we are today; an axe that helped hew a pioneer’s log cabin, agricultural implements used by early settlers, clothing and ornaments made by the valley’s original inhabitants, the Salish, continuing to build a thriving culture. Explore the valley’s beginnings,which still affect us today as well as contemporary topics and current events. Keep an eye open for the unexpected while walking through history. In our small valley, the Museum staff provides presentations, and exhibits along with culturally relevant entertainment. Activities, interactive programs, and lectures are offered that encourage and expand one’s experience of the world around us. The Bitterroot Valley has a unique legacy and is filled with charming, historic towns. Our museum and the valley’s citizens enjoy sharing this sense of place with pride. No matter where you are from you will feel welcome.
Come in and be amazed! The Ravalli County Museum and Historical Society offers an array of permanent exhibits centered on the beautiful Bitterroot valley and its people. Take a walk with Lewis and Clark in 1805 when they encountered the Salish tribe, visit Life in the West when cowboys and rodeos thrived, explore the lifestyle of trappers and miners in the ol’ west and discover the abundance of wildlife
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with its natural history. The story of the Bitterroot Valley is depicted with exhibits of early logging and agriculture industries and the life of the legendary Copper Kings who made the valley their playground. In the Bertie Lord Collection Room, you too, can step back in time in the one-room school house and flash back to the photographers Victorian era.
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Make History! Make a Difference! Make a Donation! Many of you have attended events, visited the Museum, and enjoyed the presentations – you have invested time, money, and ideas to make a vibrant, “Local History, Art, and Natural History” Museum possible. One of the most important roles of a local museum is to document and explore our changing world. The involvement of caring people, like yourself, supports the majority of our programming. Help us continue to value, share and celebrate our past, live in the present, and explore our future; in cooperation we will learn from this collective history. Join us! The Ravalli County Museum and Historical Society
Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society invite you to
take the first step. Join us! Become an official member of the Ravalli County Museum and Historical Society! Your contributions make a difference!
Membership Levels: $25 Individual Senior/Student $ 40 Individual $ 50 Family $100 Bitterroot $100 Business Member (includes website listing) $250 Ponderosa $500 Sapphire $1000 Trapper Peak
Please call 406.363.3338 today, or stop by the Museum and make History! Thank you, Tamar Stanley, Executive Director Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society 205 Bedford, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3338 ravallimuseum.org
South of the Border Treasures Tom and Alene Tunny are partnering with Montana Bliss Artworks for an event to benefit The Ravalli County Museum gift shop update! The gift shop is an important income stream for the museum’s operations. The Tunnys have collected cultural art pieces while teaching internationally and are now selling them for this important event! 20% of all sales of this collection and all art in the Montana Bliss Artworks Gallery and Studio will be contributed to the Ravalli County Museum. The Tunnys will be at the opening to share their story about these amazing pieces that you can acquire, brought to Hamilton from their travels in Brazil, Peru, the Caribbean’s Trinidad and Venezuela. We welcome you to the opening show on October 11th from 5-8pm at Montana Bliss Artworks at 101 S. 7th St., Hamilton. See you there! Barbara Liss, Montana Bliss Artworks and the ARTspace 101 South 7th , Hamilton, Mt 59840 406-351-0073 www.montanablissartworks.com Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
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Museum
Enter to Win a CustomÂ-Restored
A
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R aff le
R avalli
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ty
n um t u
Co u
HAMILTON, MONTANA
Sears Vintage Bicycle Buy a museum membership & get 2 Raffle tickets for free!
Tickets Available at Ravalli County Museum
Memberships available on line.
Museum Raffle Prizes: 1st Place Custom Vintage Sears Bike with basket of local gift certificates & magical witches Bike Brigade accessories, free 1 year membership.
M U S E U M 10
See prizes at Farmers Market every Saturday before the drawing & at select locations throughout the valley
2nd Place Victor Steakhouse gift certificate, jewelry, free 1 year Museum membership.
Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society 205 Bedford Hamilton, MT | 406.363.3338 www.ravallimuseum.org | Gif tMontana.com
3rd Place Apple crate filled with Halloween decor, free 1 year Museum membership
Drawing takes place October 5th at 8:30 pm during the 6th Annual Liquid Apple Night Festival
HAMILTON, MONTANA
Choose from seventeen varieties of the finest premium-quality extra virgin olive oil, infused oils and balsamic vinegars. Contact the store to sign up for renowned Olivelle Cooking Classes and ideas. You’ll always find something new at Robbins On Main in beautiful downtown Hamilton. Newly expanded Robbins has an even larger selection of home decor and accessories. Featuring the largest kitchen store in Western Montana - you will also find a wonderful collection of candles, clocks, collectibles, home décor and of the wonderful gifts of an award winning Hallmark store. From tabletop for the sophisticated party or wedding… to the a bridal shower or picnic, our knowledgeable sales team can point you in any direction you desire. Please stop in and say hi!
209 W. Main St. Hamilton, Montana 406.363.1733 robbinsonmain.com
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
2019/20
EVENTS & SHOWS
QUALITY LIVE THEATER FOR OVER 30 YEARS
The Daly Mansion Murder Mystery: Tickets on sale Friday, September 20 at 1 p.m. “A Conspirator’s Conspiracy - An Evening at the Gottrox Mansion” is set at a contemporary conspiracy enthusiasts’ convention. This year’s murder mystery dinner event is to die for. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $50/person with a choice of entree (Abruzzi glazed sirloin with caramelized onions OR Grilled Portobelo; both with Tuscan polenta and parsley gremolata). Catered by A Moveable Feast. Guests are encouraged to dress in their own conspiracy theorist costume. Haunted Playhouse: October 24-26, 7pm - 10pm Grave Readings (Reader’s Theater): October 30 at 7pm Equus (Reader’s Theater): November 16 at 7pm A Christmas Carol (Reader’s Theater): December 21 at 7pm
2020 Season Ticket Shows
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS AT 8pm, SUNDAYS AT 2pm
Mary Poppins - opens in February (TBA) Title Pending Approval/TBA - opens in April (TBA) Crazy for You - opens in June (TBA) Steel Magnolias - opens in August (TBA)
The Coffee Cup Cafe The Coffee Cup is the place to go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Relax in the unique collectibles decor while enjoying generous portions of great home cooking. The Homemade pies are simply wonderful. The sticky buns , beautifully gooey with raisins and melted sugar, are must! When it is in season, you have to try the rhubarb pie; your taste buds will never be the same. 500 S. 1st St. Hamilton 406.363.3822
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BIT TERROOT VALLEY
Ravalli County’s Leading Real Estate Firm
TM
“At Your Service”
Merle Unruh
Broker/Owner 369-0269
Sandy Schlotterbeck Broker 360-4788
Steve Zech
Nichole Corona
Jim Andrusky
Pat Gonzalez
Robert (Bob) Kwapy
Cody Frisbie
Bill Peddie
Broker 360-1701
Realtor
531-0575
Realtor 363-8013
Realtor 361-5725
Maddie Pragnell
Broker 369-2942
Broker 239-5858
Realtor 381-1803
Realtor 360-7355
John Porter Realtor 370-5343
Stacey Oren Realtor 369-5094
Marabeth Fite Broker 239-5300
Kristin King Realtor 360-2459
Experience the difference of our locally owned and operated real estate company right here in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley! Visit our website to view our extensive company inventory plus both the Bitterroot and Missoula County MLS properties.
406-363-4700
montanawestgate.com Realtyhm@MontanaWestgate.com 2134 North 1st St. (Hwy 93) Hamilton, Montana 59840 Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
The Daly Mansion Weddings, Events, Tours, Concerts, and Parties of All Types!
Envision the wedding of your dreams at the Daly Mansion. The gorgeous, sloping lawns and swales with leafy canopies above will enchant your guests and set the scene for a perfect wedding, not to mention providing a superior background for photos and videos. However, please keep in mind that the Daly Mansion is an historic structure and as such, while we enjoy hosting weddings, our primary goal is the mansion’s preservation. Make your wedding an historic event! Reserve your day at the Daly Mansion. Call 406.363.6004, darlene.gould@dalymansion.org.
WEST LIVERY ARGE VE A LIT I R
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Lowest delivery fee in the area!
V
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e Bitte rroot Furnitur Hamilton, M T
E TL
D
Your low cost furniture provider for 30
E A LOT
223 Pinckney St., Hamilton • 363-1943 • bitterrootfurniture.com 14
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years!
Buy from the owners!
HAMILTON, MONTANA
Visit the Home of a King
The Daly Mansion The Marcus Daly Mansion, the Bitterroot’s Beautiful and Historic Event Venue The Daly Mansion is as elegant as ever and open for daily tours. The grounds are beautiful, the shade keeps you cool—it is just like stepping back a hundred years. This is a perfect summer venue for the many Mansionhosted events. The grounds are also available to lease for special private and public events. Situated on 46 acres of lush landscape, the Daly Mansion is the historic home of 19th Century American industrialist Marcus Daly. The exhibits convey the story of Daly and his rise from working-class Irish immigrant to copper magnate, as well as the regional and international history of his extended family. The Daly Mansion is open 10 AM to 4 PM 7 days a week, May to October. Tours begin on the hour from 11 AM to 3 PM daily, including holidays, and are also available October through April, Monday–Friday with a 24 hour advance appointment. The Mansion and grounds are also available to rent for most events. 406.363.6004 • DalyMansion.org 251 Eastside Highway, Hamilton, MT 59840
Today, the Mansion is a hub of local culture, entertainment, engagement and historical interpretation. Its sees nearly 10,000 visitors annually. A team of over 100 volunteers are dedicated to preserving the grounds and house for the enjoyment of all who enter. The Daly Mansion is a treasure of history and intrigue, and they are
thrilled to share it with visitors and community members alike. For more information about this beautiful 1910 Georgian Revival home and the Margaret Daly Memorial Arboretum and Botanical Gardens – visit the Daly Mansion website. The Daly Mansion is proud to be a Distinctive Destination of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which welcomes all National Trust members to receive discounts when visiting this site.
Daly Mansion Fall 2019 2019 Event Schedule Oct. 9-12
Murder Mystery Dinner 6:30 PM Oct. 25-26 Haunted Mansion Hayrides 7:00 - 10:00 PM Nov. 1-2 Holly Jolly Artisan Show & Sale Dec. 14 Community Christmas Party 11:00—3:00 PM
The Mansion is a state-owned property managed by the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust in partnership with The University of Montana.
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It’s a Beautiful Day for Business in the Bitterroot! From River to Ridge a great place to live, work and play! ©
It’s a beautiful day in the Bitterroot! As the 2019 President of the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC) it is my goal to help our local businesses grow – to encourage new business opportunities, promote tourism and ensure the desired quality of life in the Bitterroot valley for generations to come. Whether you are a long time “Bitterrooter”, new to the valley or just visiting, we have something in common. We love living, working and playing in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. The Valley boasts spectacular scenery and diverse outdoor activities. The business community includes world class research laboratories, highly qualified medical Susan Wetzsteon 2019 Chamber President services, a thriving construction industry, a talented and diverse art community, many unique retail businesses, and a diverse infrastructure of service and professional businesses. I hope you are a member and will get involved. Attend our monthly luncheons, the Annual Awards Banquet, Business-After-Hours and ribbon cuttings. I want to encourage you to join the Leadership Bitterroot program. We have expanded the class to include several dynamic speakers. Leaders in their field willing to pass on their expertise as well as hard learned lessons on being an effective leader. Get to know other BVCC members and volunteers. The Chamber is a business building network of professionals working to improve economic climate of the valley. I guarantee you will receive way more than you give. If you are not a member, I welcome you to contact our team of board members; or Al Mitchell, Chamber director; or Pat Easley, administrative assistant. We will be happy to visit with you and answer questions and hear your ideas. Together we can and will continue to make the Bitterroot Valley a vibrant, prosperous community! Sincerely, Susan S. Wetzsteon 2019 BVCC President
Enjoy your stay - for a week or for a lifetime!
BitterrootChamber.com • 406.363.2400 105 E. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
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Bitterroot Valley Chamber Members Making History!
2020 will be the 114th year the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce has honored the hard working, caring, giving people that strive everyday to make it a “Beautiful Day in the Bitterroot”. You know Bitterrooters like these award winners that deserve a little recognition for the job they do to better life in the valley. Nominate the person that demonstrated exceptional - beyond the call of duty service or effort helping you this year. Contact the Chamber with your nominees by the first of December. Thank you.
Business of the Year
Community Asset Award
Judy Grasser and Scott Grasser, owners of Lost Trail Powder Mountain were proudly awarded the Community Asset Award. This award recognizes Lost Trail and the Grassers for the enduring and valuable asset their family and business is to the valley.
Unsung Hero Award
New Business of the Year
Dan Mitchell quietly accepted the Unsung hero Award. This award os passed along year after year to the person who’s dedication, hard work, and outstanding contributions might normally go unnoticed. This award recognizes the steadfastness and selflessness of those who give of their time and energy - without ever a thought of reward.
New Business of the Year goes to Jeni Seifert (right), owner, and employees Katy Bociek and Amy Lowry, of Main Street Toys - in appreciation of their new business in the valley . Napps Grill, owner Tyler Gilder deserves the Business of the Year award: this award goes to Tyler for striving to make our community a better place to live, work and raise families.
Business Person of the Year
Spark Plug Award
Volunteer of the Year
Carol Holman, Volunteer of the Year: the Chamber is proud to recognize Carol for always stepping up to the plate to volunteer time and energy to make our communities prosper.
Cody Omlid, owner of CJ’s Den & Bear’s Lair in Stevensville and Florence was selected as Business Person of the Year. This award goes to a dedicated person who constantly works to achieve professionalism in everything they do.
Melissa Breenwood is the communications specialist at Ravalli Electric Coop. and is awarded the Spark Plug Award. For someone who ‘sparks’ the community with their deeds & actions . . . and makes a difference.
Office Volunteer of the Year
Economic Development
Jason and Toshara Pond of Cybernet 1 earned the Economic Development award for tirelessly working to promote economic development in the valley.
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Bert Bovee, well deserves to be the Office Volunteer of the Year. You will always see Bert volunteering at every event you attend. From Girl Scouts to the theatre to the Fair, we all have to love Bert! Thank you. BitterrootChamber.com • 406.363.2400 105 E. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 chamber@bvchamber.com Gif tMontana.com
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Museums Along Highway 93 If you are a history buff, you will be hard pressed to find to a better route to explore than Hwy 93 through Ravalli County in Montana and Lemhi County in Idaho. From Native American history and the travels of Lewis & Clark to the River of No Return this 150 mile stretch of two lane blacktop offers plenty to the inquisitive mind. With so much to see, learn and experience take your time – you don’t want to rush.
Holt Heritage Museum
holtheritagemuseum.com • 406.273.6743 Owners Bill and Ramona Holt • 6800 U.S. 12, Lolo, Montana 59847
Historic Darby Ranger Station Visitor Center and Museum
Travelers Rest State Park
fs.usda.gov/bitterroot • 406.821.3913 712 North Main • Darby, Montana 59829
Stevensville Historical Museum
Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum
406.777.1007 517 Main St., Stevensville along Highway 93
Fort Owen State Park
stateparks.mt.gov/fort-owen • 406.542.5500 Fort Owen State Park is located 25 miles south of Missoula on U.S. 93 at the Stevensville Junction, then .5 mile east on Secondary 269
Victor Heritage Museum
victorheritagemuseum.org • 406.642.3997 125 S Blake St, Victor, Montana 59875
Daly Mansion
dalymansion.org • 406.363.6004 251 Eastside Highway, Hamilton, Montana 59840
Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society brvhsmuseum.org • 406.363.3338 205 Bedford St, Hamilton, Montana 59840
fs.usda.gov/bitterroot • 406.821.3913
Big Hole National Battlefield Museum
nps.gov/biho • (406) 689-3155 • 16425 Highway 43 • Wisdom, MT
Lemhi County Museum
lemhicountymuseum.org • 208.756.3342 • 210 Main St, Salmon, Idaho 83467
H
I
COU
TY
saintmarysmission.org • 406.777.5734 P.O. Box 211 West end of 4th St, Stevensville, MT
Historic Alta Ranger Station
N
St. Mary’s Mission
406.821.3753 • 101 E Tanner Ave, Darby, Montana 59829
LEM
travelersrest.org • 406.273.4253 6717 Highway 12 West, Lolo, Mt 59847
HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM EST. 1963
A Sense of History, Place and Community
Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational Center sacajaweacenter.org • 208.756.1188 Lewis and Clark Street, Highway 28 • Salmon, Idaho 83467
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VICTOR, MONTANA
Victor Heritage Museum HISTORY OF THE VICTOR HERITAGE MUSEUM by Joann Hosko A museum for Victor was the vision of Peggy Thornbrugh, resident and staunch supporter of the community. Peggy learned that two city lots at the corner of Main and Blake Streets were available for a civic cause. On September 10, 1989, she invited a small group of people from historic Victor families to a meeting at her house. Her goal was to find a building for those lots. Soon came the serendipitous discovery that a mining company, utilizing the 1928 vintage Northern Pacific Railroad Depot east of Victor Crossing, would be willing to donate the building to the newly incorporated Victor Heritage Museum. Immediately, the Museum members began fundraising, using raffles, bake sales, and more, but especially a food concessions trailer that had been purchased. Soon, it was being towed to many events. In the coming year, and those to follow, that little wooden trailer on a single axle was seen at the Creamery Picnic, Ravalli County Fair, Chief Victor Days, auctions, and more. By December 1990, the $2,000 needed to hire a house mover had been earned. The land had been prepared and the foundation was ready. The quintessential 1928 depot, measuring 50 foot by 20 foot, traveled down the Eastside Highway to Bell Crossing, west over the Bitterroot River,
across US 93 and up to Meridian Road, following that into Victor and to its intended destination. There were many jobs to complete in the ensuing seventeen months prior to our opening to the public in May 1992. Fred Hosko acted as restoration supervisor, obtaining materials at cost or less, and tradesmen and contractors willing to donate their time and talents. The waiting room and telegraph room were virtually in original condition, but the freight room, having been used as a warehouse, required considerable rehabilitation and upgrades. An outbuilding was constructed, for a restroom and storage room. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, dry-wall installers,
125 S. Blake St. • Victor, MT 59875 • 406.642.3997 • VictorHeritageMuseum.org • victormuseum@cybernet1.com 20
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earth movers, and painters were among the help. The Museum was dedicated on a very smoky August 11, 1996, with Judge Jeffrey Langton as the speaker. The first of our annual Chocolate Tasting Party/ Silent Auctions was held the first Monday in December 1997. The event has grown exponentially since then. The proceeds largely cover our yearly overhead, basic maintenance, and planned expenses. There are no paid employees. Everyone is a volunteer. The only public money received to date were Ravalli County Park Board funds used to develop the well and water system. The Museum is appreciative of grants, bequests, memorials, and donations it receives from time to time. The annual Ice Cream Social is held on the last Sunday in August, as a thank you to the community for its support. In 2019, this event celebrated the Museum’s 30th Anniversary. The Victor Heritage Museum is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Tuesday through Saturday, 1-4 PM, and for special events such as silk painting classes and history presentations. The Museum will open upon request and by appointment, for such gatherings as reunions and community projects. The Museum opens for the Victor School Homecoming, 9-Noon. This year’s date is October 5.
Special Events in Fall 2019
Victor School Homecoming October 5 9 AM to Noon Chocolate Tasting Party/Silent Auction December 2 3 to 8 PM
Lisa Archer Silks
art, antiques and collectables Entrepreneur and artist, Lisa Archer, combines the exquisite colors of nature with the graceful fibers of silk to create elegant silk fashion. She can be found in her studio creating fine hand painted one-of-a-kind silks, unique and original flutter jackets, Montana feather scarves, pillows, wall art and other custom pieces. Please come in and enjoy the many items in her art gallery. 113 W. Main Street Victor, Montana 59875 (406) 360-3698 lasilks@gmail.com
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DARBY, MONTANA
Discover
It’s a Beautiful Day in Darby Darby Wine and Spirits
will be your favorite stop after a big day in the mountains, on the river, or at Lost Trail Ski area. Hunters, hikers, skiers, or shoppers, Darby’s only full line State Liquor Store invites you to experience and explore Darby and the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. Darby Wine and Spirits will keep you stocked up on your favorite beverages all year long and for all of your favorite community events.
9 am–8 pm in Summer • 10 am–7 pm in Winter 201 N Main Street in Darby • 406.821.4117 • darbywinespirits@gmail.com 22
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DARBY, MONTANA
Darby . . . Today!
• On U.S. Highway 93, in the heart of the Bitterroot • On the Lewis and Clark and Nez Perce Trails • Enjoy world class rodeo events • Take the family camping and boating on Lake Como • Visit the Pioneer Museum & U.S.F.S. Historic Center • Relax, read and learn at the beautiful Darby Library • Ski Lost Trail Powder Mountain • Swim and camp at Lost Trail Hot Springs • Enjoy miles of snowmobile & cross country ski trails • Fish, raft, float the beautiful Bitterroot River • Get away in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness • Hike 1,600 miles of trails in the Bitterroot N. F. • Shop for antiques • Stay at world class resorts • Shop for all your outdoor sporting needs • Visit Double H Custom Hat Company • Enjoy hometown breweries and wineries • Befriend local artists and all around friendly people!
Ol d We s t Sho ps Antiques, Art, Home Decor,
Ice Cream • Huckleberry Treats • Fudge Gallery • Furniture • Clothing • Toys • Candy O l d W e s t C a n d y. c o m 406.821.4076 • 202 S. Main St. in Darby, MT
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DARBY, MONTANA
Old West Gallery, Antiques, & Candy Darby’s Main Attraction On Main Street! This 16,000 square foot space houses a huge selection of the finest antiques and collectibles in the Bitterroot Valley. They have everything: art, metal work, stoves, furniture, home décor, fine collectibles, and an Old West Candy Store to boot.
Gallery
They have more than 600 varieties of candy guaranteed to satisfy the sweet tooth in young and old alike. So, whether you pop in for a moment or stay for a few hours, you’re going to find something you’ll love. Be it a sweet treat or an antique treasure, you don’t want to miss the Old West Gallery, Antiques,and Candy Store in Darby, Montana!
Chocolates
Candies
Homemade Fudge • Espresso • Huckleberry Treats • Chocolates
O l d We s t C a n d y.c o m 4 0 6 . 8 21. 4 076 • 2 0 2 S . M a i n S t . i n D a r b y, M T
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DARBY, MONTANA
Over 16,000 Square Feet of Antiques, Collectibles, Fine Art, & Furniture!
Old West Gallery, Antiques, & Candy O nl y a t 20 2 S . M ain St . in D ar by, M T o r o nlin e a t M o n t an a O l d We s t G a ll e r y.co m Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
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DARBY, MONTANA
Darby, MT and Wickenburg, AZ
Two Shops are Better than One Quality, Handmade Hats
in Darby, Montana and Wickenburg, Arizona Each and every hat is custom made to perfectly fit your head. Double H Hat Company specializes in custom handmade feltedfur hats in various styles including western, gentlemen and ladies hats. The original shop is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Darby, Montana while the new Double H Custom Hat shop is in Wickenburg, AZ, the heart of cowboy country. Jimmy “the hat man” (Master Hatter) also offers hat cleaning, blocking and total renovation. Jimmy will custom build a hat to fit your unique style and exact size. A variety of embellishments, including custom inlays, bead work, and unique hat bands create the highest quality custom hats for any occasion from rodeos to weddings, brandings to formal balls. Double H Hats creates only the highest quality hats of true 50% beaver or 100% beaver or Guatemalan fine palm leaf (the only straw hats you will find in the shop). He carries the finest horsehair hat bands and belts. Only the best in a wide array of finely crafted horsehair, bone, leather, beaded, or silver hat bands will go on a Double H Hat. Jimmy the Hat Man stands behind his hats 100%, including the shape and fit of the hat. Even the dye set is guaranteed so that you can wear your hat in any weather. Double H buys hat bodies from the only felting factory they know of that guarantees the dye set not to bleed. All new custom made hats come in a hard hat can case so shipping is no problem—he has shipped as far away as the South Pole Station.
Your hat will fit properly … guaranteed.
J imm y “The Ha t Man”
Double HH C u s t o m H at C o .
406.360.6979 (c) • 121 S. Main • Darby, MT 59829 & 201 N. Frontier St. • Wickenburg, AZ 85390
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DARBY, MONTANA
The Name Says it All W
himsy and delight greet you as you walk through the doors of Hidden Treasures at 206 N Main Street in beautiful downtown Darby. I created the type of shop I like to discover when traveling. Every nook and cranny is filled with visual joy. Hidden Treasures features both gently used home furnishings and local art work. It’s a place where both visitors and locals shop. The Bitterroot Valley has an abundance of artistic talent, however not everyone had enough work to warrant their own gallery. Now they have a place to display their work and their eclectic creativity awaits you. New pieces are added weekly. There is something for every budget from old style postcards to an king size lodge pole bed. There is also something for a full range of Montana decorating styles; cowboy, cabin charm, shabby chic, or vintage, you can find it here. Original artwork adorns the walls. Book lovers will find unique journal inspiration along with bird and wild flower guides. Hand-crafted pottery featuring rainbow trout and campers fill a barn red cabinet. Re-purposed wood signs hang throughout the store.
206 N. Main St. Darby, Montana 59829 406.360.9086
Stop in today and discover your very own Hidden Treasure.
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STEVENSVILLE, MONTANA
Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum Established 1841
Father Anthony Ravalli’s Log Cabin and Crab Apple Tree are 150 years old! Father Anthony Ravalli, S.J. was born in Ferrara, Italy in 1812 and was recruited by Father Pierre DeSmet, S.J. for missionary work among the Rocky Mountain Indians in 1844. Father Ravalli came to St. Mary’s Mission in 1845 and developed the first agriculture program and built Montana’s first gristmill and sawmill. Father Ravalli learned the Bitter Root Salish Tribal language and earned a reputation among the Indians and settlers for his skill and resourcefulness as a craftsman, architect, physician, surgeon and pharmacist. St. Mary’s closed in 1850 and Father Ravalli accepted a series of posts in other parts of the West. In 1866 he returned to his beloved Salish Indians and reestablished St. Mary’s Mission. When he died in 1884, Father Ravalli was buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery with the Indians whom he had worked alongside for 40 years. Father Ravalli was honored as “a healer of souls and bodies.” The staff with Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum is honored to be the caretakers of Father Ravalli’s log cabin/ pharmacy which was built in 1869. The same year his living quarters were built, Father Ravalli planted an apple orchard on the Mission grounds. From the original orchard, one crab apple tree remains.
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The Montana State University Western Agriculture Research Center east of Corvallis took clippings from the tree and identified it as a Transcendent Crab Apple. Most trees of this variety live only 70 to 80 years. This remarkable tree is 150 years-old this year and is a reminder to visitors of the many aspects of agriculture that Father Ravalli taught his beloved Salish people. Father Ravalli’s cabin features Montana’s first “ride-up” pharmacy window where tribal members and settlers could get medicine for whatever ailed them or their families through a small shuttered window on the west side of the cabin. In the pharmacy, a visitor can see two original medicine chests used by Father Ravalli. His living quarters display many hand-carved pieces of furniture made by the talented missionary. Today, visitors may tour the 1866 St. Mary’s Chapel with attached living quarters, (filled with artifacts made by Father Ravalli), Chief Victor’s Cabin (Salish Indian Museum), Father Ravalli’s Cabin, plus see the amazing 150-year-old tree. Guests to St. Mary’s Mission will also learn the remarkable story of how the Salish Indians invited the “Blackrobe” missionaries to live among them.
Offering the largest selection of quality used Saddles, Tack, and Western Wear in Montana. You will also find Rodeo Pageantry
and Show Clothes, Chaps, Boots, Sterling Jewelry, anything Carhartt, Dusters, and the like…
Historic St. Mary’s Mission
Open April 15 - October 12 Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM 315 Charlo Street Stevensville, MT 59870 saintmarysmission.org 406-777-5734 Fr o m R i v e r t o R i d g e . c o m
406.273.4226 6555 Highway 12 West Lolo, Montana Open 6 Days a Week crazyhorseconsignment.com 29
DARBY, MONTANA
GiftMontana.com Whether you shop on-line or in person, you will find something to love, be it a homemade sweet treat, an antique, or an art treasure. You do not want to miss out on the selection at the Old West Candy Store in Darby, Montana!
Huckleberry Treats Wild Huckleberry Milk Chocolate Candy Bar
Delicious milk chocolate swirled with wild huckleberries. $5.99
Wild Huckleberry Dark Chocolate Candy Bar
A chocolate lover’s dream—scrumptious dark chocolate swirled with wild huckleberries. $5.99
Huckleberry Hot Chocolate
This rich Wild Huckleberry White Chocolate treat turns “huckleberry purple” when you add hot water. Enjoy it in coffee as a latte, or as is. 2 Servings per bag, 4 bags for $11.99
Huckleberry Gummy Grizzly Bears
Real Montana Gummy Grizzly Bears with perfect chewy gummy texture plus that special WILD huckleberry flavor. 7 oz., for $4.99
Huckleberry Licorice Twists
Real Montana—Real Licorice—Real Huckleberry! A full one pound bag, $14.99
Chocolate Covered Huckleberries
Wild Montana Huckleberry Salt Water Taffy Enough said! 8 oz., $5.99.
Wild Huckleberry Jelly Beans
Perfect for birthday parties or even office and corporate gifts. 7 oz. in a special gift wrap, $4.99
Huckleberry Pops
The kids will love you. $6 for 5.99
Milk Chocolate Bon Bons
A perfect and very special gift— special Montana wild huckleberry creamy center covered in chocolate. Big bites of delight. Box of 15 for $14.99
Check on-line for more specialty chocolates, hand made truffles, bulk, and hard candy varieties.
Wild huckleberries surrounded in rich white confectioners’ chocolate. Naturally Delicious! 2 oz. per pack. Two Packs for $6.50
Prices are subject to change. Shipping and handling may be added.
GiftMontana.com
406.821.4076 • 202 S. Main St. in Darby, MT 30
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Explore Montana Sapphires
Jewelry for every woman and man from every walk of life. Montana Sapphires • Wedding and Engagement Sets Diamond and Colored Gem Stone Jewelry • Designer Sterling
200-891 14 karat white gold lever back earrings with 2=1.18Tw round MT Sapphires and 0.09Tw round diamonds $1,729.00
230-1660: 14 karat white gold pendant with one 0.37Ct oval Yogo and one 0.01Ct round diamond 18” sterling silver chain $1,422.00
640-669 sterling silver matte’ Montana charm with one 2.00mm round Yogo Sapphire $99.00
200-892 14 karat white gold geometric fashion ring size 7 with one 1.20Ct round MT Sapphire and 0.09Tw round diamonds $2,187.00
235-57 14 karat white gold Journey Necklace with 0.25Tw round diamonds and one 0.14Ct round Yogo, 18 inch chain $1,187.00
240-34: 14 karat white gold 7 inch tennis bracelet with 52= 11.97tw round Montana Sapphires $8,250.00
CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE AT MIKESELLSFINEJEWELRY.COM
BUY THESE PIECES ONLINE AT GIFTMONTANA.COM Each stone is unique and an authentic Montana Sapphire, thus only one of each piece is available.
201 W. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-6236 Mikesell-j@cybernet1.com
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HAMILTON, MONTANA
Explore
YOUR HOMETOWN JEWELER
Jewelry for every woman and man from every walk of life. Montana Sapphires • Wedding and Engagement Sets Diamond and Colored Gem Stone Jewelry • Designer Sterling
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201 W. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-6236 Mikesell-j@cybernet1.com
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