Montana Museum of Railroad History

Montana Museum of Railroad History -- Mission Statement and Description


The MMRH mission is to preserve and tell the history of Montana's railroads, the people who built and operated them, and of their important role in the development of the state. On display are two, large, operating scale model railroads, depicting much of Montana's railroad history and related development, permanent and temporary exhibits of historic Montana railroad artifacts, and Burlington Northern Railway caboose #12377. In addition, during 2013 our 1926 Davenport, 30-inch narrow gauge 0-4-0T, Anaconda Mining Co. No. 124, industrial steam locomotive exhibit was installed, and cosmetic restoration planned.



This is our 1926 Davenport 0-4-0T, narrow gauge, 30",15 ton steam locomotive. It was used at the Anaconda copper refinery, Great Falls, Montana until it was retired in the early 1950's.

Following planned interior renovations for which funding awards and steps leading to the start of construction are in process, additional permanent and changing exhibits, railroad collections, and an extensive railroad resource library of books and photos will be installed for public, educational and scholarly use.

MMRH is an all-volunteer museum project with no paid staff. Established as MMRH in 2005, its history dates to the 1961 formation of the Great Falls Model Railroad Club, which has operated continuously since that time. The museum is a recipient of major railroad collections from estates and individuals for preservation, restoration and public exhibition. MMRH is funded and supported by membership, individual and corporate in-kind and cash donations, as well as grants.

Special events, projects and programs with speakers, community museum collaboration and educational tours extend the outreach of MMRH.
Winter Hours: Thursday evenings: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Summer Extended Hours: In addition to Thursday; Saturdays: noon - 4:30 p.m.
Memberships and contributions welcomed. See our membership page.

Location: Montana ExpoPark, 400 3rd St. N.W., Great Falls. See our location page.
Contact: MMRH, P.O. Box 3483 Great Falls, MT 59403 or see our contact page.
Member: Great Falls Museum Consortium

EIN 20-2429858
Montana Museum of Railroad History is a designated non-profit tax-exempt entity
under IRS section 501(c)(3) and the Montana State Department of Revenue.