Governor Gianforte Highlights Historic Preservation Projects Across Montana

Opportunity for private sector to establish long-term leases on historic buildings

• August 29 2025

VIRGINIA CITY, Mont. – Continuing his 56 County Tour in Madison County, Governor Greg Gianforte recently visited Viriginia City and Nevada City to highlight recent investments in historic preservation projects and the opportunity for interested parties to establish long-term leases on historic buildings.

“Working with our partners in the legislature, we authorized the Montana Heritage Commission to offer long term leases to help us continue preserving our treasured Montana history and incentivize private investment,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It was great to get an update on the efforts underway to restore and preserve historic buildings and to meet with current lessees on their plans.”

Gov. Gianforte visiting the Bale of Hay Saloon in Virginia City

Through the Montana Department of Commerce, the Montana Heritage Commission preserves and manages historic resources in Virginia City, Nevada City, and Reeder's Alley to promote Montana history and support tourism. The commission serves as a steward for these historic sites, ensuring their preservation, while working with private business owners and investors on leasing opportunities.

When Gov. Gianforte signed House Bill 680, sponsored by Rep. Ken Walsh, R-Twin Bridges, the commission was authorized to offer long-term leases, up to 99 years, for properties under its management to entities making substantial capital investments to the property.

Stopping in Nevada City, the governor received an update on the status of the Nevada City Hotel. The hotel is historic stagecoach station featuring 14 guest rooms, including two suites. This property is currently available for lease.

“For those in the hospitality industry across Montana, if you want to invest in Virginia City or Nevada City we have a proposal – the capital investment made will be reflected in the lease price,” Gov. Gianforte said.

Kal Poole, executive director of the Montana Heritage Commission, added, “We have a number of opportunities. This is a site in need of help and restoration. The Nevada City Hotel has been shuttered since 2019, just before COVID. It was a family illness that took it down and over time, it’s been declining to the point where we need to undergo structural work.”

Continuing to Virginia City, Gov. Gianforte stopped by the Bale of Hay Saloon and Stonewall Hall.

Established in the 1860's, The Bale of Hay Saloon is regarded as one of the oldest bars in Montana. In 1983, a fire broke out in the back of the saloon resulting in restoration of the roof, yet the front and exterior of the building are original. Earlier this month, the saloon re-opened welcoming guests with a new menu and live music.

Stonewall Hall was constructed in 1864 and stands as Montana's oldest standing capitol building. When Virginia City served as the capital of the Montana Territory, Stonewall Hall was the meeting location for the territorial legislature. Renovations on the building began in Summer 2023 to establish the building as a museum and with hopes to include a restaurant space.

Getting an update on the status of restoration, the governor heard the group expects exterior rock siding to continue being applied with a roof expected to be constructed before the snow flies.

Those interested in applying to lease a historic property in partnership with the Montana Heritage Commission can learn more and apply here.

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