The Range Riders Museum tells the story of Miles City in artifacts, pictures, and buildings. And Miles City was one of the first areas to be settled in this section of the country. There are nice gun and arrowhead collections plus many, many items donated by area residents. Buildings include a jail, country school and Ft. Keogh officer quarters. Go prepared to be there awhile, there is quite a bit to see. The grounds are kid friendly... ask to ring the bell.
We didn't expect much but went in anyway. What we found was lots of memories: guns, gowns, arrowheads, photos, cars, ladies hats, knives, dishes, saddles and tack, jewelry, flags, and tools. ...and more! All is nicely displayed, but it would take days to see it all. If you are researching some aspect of western life, you could see many items all here in one place or spend hours evaluating one collection. An iron lung, spinning wheels, and branding irons - it's all here! A friendly docent, too.
I haven't been to Range Riders since I was a Girl Scout. It was fun to revisit! It does need a bit of sprucing up, Miles City needs to push a little money twords keeping this gem up!
This museum has something for everyone. The museum contains a wide range of artifacts of and information about the history of Miles City. What a wonderful tribute to the pioneers of the area. I found the hall, filled with photos of local settlers, most interesting.
The Museum is a collection of varied items from the region. One great room has photos of the members of the Society dating back to the early ranchers. Larger items are in a barn-like structure. Included are wagons, a 1940 Chevrolet, and, most unusually, an iron lung. It is the only one I have ever seen. Before the Salk vaccine, polio was a dreaded childhood disease. When the patient's lungs failed, they were placed in this device which took over the lung function.
This is a great little museum with emphasis on this area, but also representative of Montana in general. There's a lot of local color, but most of it is of interest to anyone interested in the West. There's a lot of stuff, but it's well-displayed and well-labeled. I've been in a lot of "high-class" museums that weren't this well done. We think it's a gem of its kind.
Filled with treasures from the past. A great place to share with family of all ages. Of course the guys love the awesome gun room.
I grew up in Miles City and still love to visit this museum each time I go back. There are new items each time I go and it is a great place to show my children and husband how life was in the "Old West". There is a gun room, some many old pictures, wagons, saddles and so, so much more. If you are stopping in Miles City, this is a must see place.
This museum has an extensive collection of western history items, with an emphasis on Southeastern Montana. This area is known for it's ranching and farming and that is reflected in the museum's attractions. A must see for those who are interested in area history in the heart of Powder River country.
Went to a one man show Saturday evening. Great T Roosevelt imitator. He really knew his stuff and played TR to a tee. Museum has lots of local history.