Garden of the Rockies Museum opens
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News from Dana Grant
RONAN - History connects people with their families, friends, culture, politics and most of all to the bonds that run between generations of society, no matter where or when one might live. Whether in a small rural town or a large urban city, people share certain pieces of history. Learning traditions and culture. Going to school. Falling in love. Meeting a new friend. Losing loved ones. Casting that first vote. These are some of the common fragments of history that connect people, from all around the world. The Garden of the Rockies Museum in Ronan provides a place where the essential connections between generations, represented by the materials, images, and stories of local history can be protected, shared, and used as educational tools.
“We have many interesting artifacts and records going back generations,” said GRM Board member Diane Grant. “It is an important record reflecting all that we have experienced.”
Established in 1975 by the Mission Valley Heritage Association, the museum’s express purpose is preserving memorabilia from the community. The MVH Association was started in the 1950’s by the Ronan Woman’s Club. Museum pieces were originally housed in the basement of the Old Brick School. In 1980, the Catholic Church donated its Parish Hall, which was the first church in Ronan, to the museum, and it was moved to its current location on Round Butte Road with land donated by the Ronan School District.
“Over the years we have collected some unusual items that give great insights into the history of our community,” Grant said. “We continue to receive wonderful donations that enhance the museum’s ability to accurately tell our history.”
Other attractions in the museum complex are the Sloan Stage Stop, a large machine shed, a “Little Red School House”, a tool shed, the Round Butte School gymnasium, and a memorial rose garden.
“As a small, non-profit, with an all-volunteer board, we welcome community support, donations, and of course volunteers to help us keep the museum open in the summer,” Grant explained. “It is fun to meet visitors from out of the area and to explore all the displays.”
The Garden of the Rockies Museum is open June, July, and August from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and by appointment on weekends.
“We have amazing volunteers and museum friends who greet visitors and assist with maintenance,” Grant said. “The Ronan High School Honor Society just helped us get everything ready for the season.”
To volunteer, donate or find out more information, contact Diane Grant at 406-676-4298.
