Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana has a unique place in Montana’s cultural preservation. Our museum and programs enrich and educate local residents and visitors about the multicultural history on the Flathead Indian Reservation and of early Montana. It was established in 1997 as a 501c3 nonprofit organization by the co-founders, Laurel and Bud Cheff Jr. The beautiful log-faced museum is situated in the Mission Valley with grand vistas of the Mission Mountains, the National Bison Range, and the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge. Our Nature Trail, located on the south edge of the property, is an amenity that informs tourists about surrounding wetlands, mountains and grasslands and the flora and fauna that populate the area.
Throughout the 8,000 square foot museum are exhibits of Native American beadwork — regalia, moccasins, and cradleboards. One room is dedicated to photos, many of which are ancestors of local residents, and events dating back into the 1800s. A large diorama room includes wildlife mounts that are native to the valley. Our portable audio tour device allows viewers to enjoy many back stories about items throughout the museum as told by Bud Cheff Jr. and guest presenters.
The gift shop offers a great selection of artwork made by local artists, Southwestern Native American turquoise jewelry, and numerous Made in Montana products. Beading and craft supplies, Pendleton products, and a large variety of books about the history and culture of the American Indian and early Montana life can also be found in the well-stocked gift shop.
The museum and gift shop are open. Thursday-Friday 9-5 and Saturday-Sunday 10-6. We open by appointment November through February. We welcome school and group tours, and we advise that you call us at 406.644.3435 or email us at info@ninepipesmuseum.org to schedule your tour. Our nonprofit museum is funded by grants, gift shop revenues and by the generosity of our members and donors.
Check our website for exhibit and event information throughout the year at www.ninepipesmuseum.org. or visit us on Facebook.