The Montana Historical Society has kicked off the final phase of its ambitious capital campaign to complete the Montana Heritage Center, announcing a $1 million fundraising goal to cross the finish line on the $60 million project.
With $59 million already secured from generous donors across the state and nation, the Society is calling on Montanans to help bring the vision of a world-class history and cultural center to full realization. The final campaign runs through July 30 and welcomes contributions of any size.
“This final stretch represents an opportunity for every Montanan to be a part of something truly special,” said Ginny Sullivan, Development Officer for the Montana Historical Society. “We are incredibly grateful to have come this far thanks to the overwhelming support from donors who share our vision. Now we’re asking the broader community to help us cross the finish line.”
A Transformative Investment in Montana’s History
The Montana Heritage Center, located in Helena, will serve as the state’s premier destination for preserving, exploring, and celebrating Montana’s rich heritage. Once complete, the facility will add 66,000 square feet of new space and renovate the existing 95,000-square-foot building.
The expanded facility will include:
- Three cutting-edge museum galleries
- A public event center
- Educational classrooms
- A reference room for researchers
- A café and retail space featuring Made in Montana products
- An interpretive trail connecting visitors to Montana’s landscape and stories
Deep Roots, Generous Support
The campaign’s success so far has been driven by major contributions from Montana-rooted philanthropists and institutions. Leading donors include the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, Norm Asbjornson, and BNSF Railway.
Wells Fargo, a longtime supporter of the Society, donated $250,000 to the Heritage Center project and has contributed historically significant artifacts, including a large gold collection that will be featured in the Homeland Gallery. That exhibit will showcase nuggets, gold dust, wire gold, and coins—items that connect directly to the early story of Montana’s frontier and mining economy.
“These artifacts, and the stories behind them, represent the deep connections so many people feel to Montana’s past,” Sullivan said. “That connection is the heart of this campaign.”
All Montanans Invited to Join the Effort
The Historical Society hopes this final campaign will encourage broad participation from individuals, families, and communities who want to play a role in shaping Montana’s future by honoring its past.
“We hope everyone who values Montana’s history will consider helping us cross the finish line,” Sullivan added. “The Montana Heritage Center will stand as a testament not only to our state’s remarkable history, but also to the generosity and vision of the people who made it possible.”
By: DNU staff