State of Montana Newsroom
101 Reasons to Celebrate!
Join us Thursday, Aug. 26, for our first public gathering in 18 months as we launch our newest book, "The History of Montana in 101 Objects: Artifacts & Essays from the Montana Historical Society."
Join us Thursday, Aug. 26, for our first public gathering in 18 months as we launch our newest book, The History of Montana in 101 Objects: Artifacts & Essays from the Montana Historical Society.
This lavishly illustrated, full-color catalog showcases the remarkable collection of artifacts preserved at MHS. Since 1865, the historical society has pursued its mission to collect and protect items of significance to Montana’s past. This incredible assemblage of objects and interpretive essays draws attention to the diversity of experiences — the triumphs and the sorrows, the everyday struggles and joys — that create the tapestry that is Montana.
“This book has been in the making for some time, since it was difficult to narrow to 101 the many objects in our collections to be included in ‘A History of Montana in 101 Objects,’” said MHS Director Molly Kruckenberg. “The book launch, along with being able to gather again in honor of our remarkable history, is definitely worth celebrating.”
The event runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the lawn outside the Montana Historical Society offices at 225 No. Roberts St. in Helena. Many of the 21 authors who compiled 101 Objects will be present to discuss the objects and sign books.
Representatives from FarCountry Press will join MHS to share a companion publication, Montana History for Kids in 50 Objects, With 50 Fun Activities! so this will be a family event. Written by Steph Lehman, this delightful guide helps even the youngest citizens understand that whether historical objects seem plain or are famous works of fine art, what they all have in common is they are key pieces of Montana’s past. Like memories, they offer glimpses of the people who lived here before us, the Montana that was, and illuminate our path to today.
Refreshments and activities will round out the evening. Festivities will move indoors in case of rain.
The event also kicks off the return to regularly scheduled public programs at MHS starting Sept. 2.
“Once again, we will be offering a chance to learn from Montana’s premier historians as they showcase their work on a wide variety of topics,” said Kirby Lambert, MHS Outreach and Education program manager. “The day remains the same — Thursday — but with a new time at 4:30 p.m.”
The first program features Dr. Ellen Baumler discussing her newest book, The Life of the Afterlife in the Big Sky State: A History of Montana's Cemeteries. Stay tuned for more information on this and additional upcoming programs.
For more information, contact Lambert at klambert@mt.gov or 406/444-4741.