Discover the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana

Located about 7 miles south of Ronan on Hwy 93 between Missoula and Polson is the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana.  The museum cares for and preserves a unique and world-class collection of over 2000 items consisting of artwork, photos, and objects of Native American and Early Montana significance.  It has been designed for the enrichment, education, and recreation of the local residents and visitors to the Mission Valley.

Step into western Montana’s past as you walk down the halls of the extensive exhibits and displays.  Learn about Native American Tribes in Montana and most importantly, those who call the Flathead Reservation home as you view up close their traditional clothing and other culturally important items that played a significant role in every day life, food production, hunting and ceremony.  You will also be greeted by artwork from famous artists of the past, such as, Ace Powell, E.S. Paxson, Charles Russell, Remington, Nancy McLaughlin and more.  Walk down the hall of photos to experience early Montana through the eyes of contemporary photographers.  The story would not be complete without also displaying life as a Montana cowboy, homesteader, fur trader and the first “blackrobe” missionaries.

Stroll around the Museum grounds to view 19th-century living and transportation before walking along the Adelle Rogers Cheff Nature Trail. See the Jocko cabin, tipi poles, wagons and even a dugout canoe.  The Ninepipes Museum nature trail is a short walk on a gravel trail through manicured grounds and magnificent views of the Mission Mountains throughout. The nature trail is bordered by the Ninepipes National Wildlife Refuge, a nationally recognized bird watching area with Fish and Wildlife land on all sides. Choose one of the benches or picnic tables to just chill at the duck-filled pond and the abounding natural beauty.

The museum gift shop is proud to reflect the area’s rich culture and history by featuring local artists and crafters who have their work on consignment there.  From woven pine needle baskets, native beadwork and hand sewn ribbon shirts to handcrafted jewelry, quilts and framed art, you will find the museum carries a wide variety of unique quality items at a range of prices.  It also has a great selection of books, cards, jewelry, blankets, craft supplies, and fine candies made in Montana.

The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana was established by Bud and Laurel Cheff in 1997 as a means to educate local residents and visitors about the Flathead Reservation and early Montana. The Cheffs felt the urgent need to ‘bring history and culture back to the valley’, which was quickly being outsourced to private collectors. Their love for this history and rich personal experiences with both Native and non-Native people alike, provides the foundation for this unique and significant resource.  Many of the items found on display at the museum are from their own personal collections which they spent a lifetime preserving. They want to ensure that the culture, history and stories of the Mission Valley would be preserved and not forgotten.

When touring the museum, you can have Bud himself walk you through and explain the history, background, significance and stories behind many of the displayed items by means of a programmed audio headset available at the front desk.  It is the nearest thing to Bud giving you a personal tour.

The next time you find yourself on Hwy 93 near Charlo, come in and immerse yourself in their lifelong passion of early Montana!

Gallery of Images