Jon Axline, Chris La Tray win Heritage Awards

• May 01 2025

Helena, MT – Jon Axline of Helena and Chris La Tray of Missoula were recently bestowed with Heritage Awards by the Montana Historical Society’s Board of Trustees.

Axline was awarded the Society’s highest honor, the Montana Heritage Guardian Award, for his significant statewide contributions. He has dedicated over three decades to preserving and interpreting Montana history as the longtime historian for the Montana Department of Transportation. Axline has authored more than 9 books, 12 articles, and 57 national register nominations, covering stories in every corner of Montana. Through his many years of research, public talks, and collaborations with other historians and organizations, Axline has inspired countless Montanans to appreciate their state’s unique history.

La Tray, a citizen of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians/Métis and the 2023-2025 Montana Poet Laureate, was honored with the Montana Heritage Keeper award for his tireless work to share the story of the Little Shell, who were federally restored in 2019. Through various works including his acclaimed memoir Becoming Little Shell, a widely read newsletter, and countless public presentations across Montana and beyond, La Tray has reached thousands with stories of dispossession, resilience, and cultural identity. Chris continues to tell his story through public speaking events and writing, inspiring audiences of all ages.

“Jon and Chris are both champions of history,” said Molly Kruckenberg, Director of the Montana Historical Society. “Their work has greatly contributed to our understanding of Montana’s stories, peoples, places, and cultures, and we’re thrilled to recognize their achievements with these awards.”

The Montana Heritage Awards are conferred on people or organizations that demonstrate an exemplary commitment to a significant Montana history project or have identified and preserved objects or property of significance to Montana’s history and culture. The 2025 awards received a record number of nominations of highly qualified candidates.

Up to two people or organizations are honored each year by the MTHS Board of Trustees for the Heritage Awards. The Montana Heritage Guardian Award is given out only on special merit; it recognizes the accomplishments of one of the Heritage Keeper Award nominees with a record of outstanding accomplishments.

The awardees will be celebrated in their local communities at ceremonies sponsored by the Montana Historical Society.

###