It’s no secret that northeast Montana is filled with rich history, often showcased by proud locals and communities in this corner of the state. The MonDak Heritage Center, eastern Montana’s premier museum, is worth a visit for those looking to take a deeper look at the stories from generations passed.

The MonDak Heritage Center began in 1967, when the MonDak Historical & Art Society was determined to engage, educate, and inspire the local community through preservation and contribution to the area’s arts, culture, and heritage. What started as a dream became a reality when a temporary museum, located in the old hospital in Sidney, Montana opened its doors in 1972. It was known as the J.K. Ralston Museum and Art Center, named after the famed western artist and local hometown boy. The Ralston Center operated for 12 years until the museum moved to the MonDak Heritage Center in 1984, where it remains to this day.

One step inside and it is clear why the Heritage Center is so special. History and art exhibits spread throughout multiple galleries paint a picture of the generations that have come before. A historical “Main Street” town is full of local stories and memories. If you are wanting to ignite a creative spark, art classes and youth programming are available, as well as a gift shop brimming with items from local artists, jewelers, and authors. For those wanting to explore their genealogy, a research library is available, filled with countless resources. If you time your visit right, you might be in for a real treat, as the MonDak Heritage Center has annual events such as Celebrating Chocolate, an evening of chocolate, elegance, and music; a Youth Art Show showcasing the talents of young local artists; a Quilting and Needlework Show; Pub Night; a Miniature Art Show; and the MonDak Christmas community event, a beloved tradition that closes out the year! Whenever you visit, you are sure to leave with a greater appreciation for the arts, history, and culture of northeast Montana.