Seasons of History

Meagher County is home to a rich history of prominent families, significant individuals, mining towns, and generational ranches. With a notable background, there are several historical markers found around the county. The most detailed records of the region, however, can be found in two museums in the county. The Bair Museum and the Castle Museum and Carriage House are approaching their closed seasons as summer fades into fall. The Castle Museum and Carriage House has had a very successful season. Opening on Memorial Day weekend annually, the Castle Museum remains a distinctive marker of the past of White Sulphur Springs. This summer, the Castle Museum and Carriage House was utilized as a historical venue for an episode of “The Story of Us: The Women Who Shaped Montana.” The Montana Historical Association (operator of the Castle Museum and Carriage House) was also featured as a community booth at the White Sulphur Springs Farmer’s Market, providing locals with more information on the prominent historical building. The Castle Museum and Carriage House will host its last tour of the 2024 season on Monday, September 2. The Castle will also present a float in the annual Labor Day Parade that same morning at 11 AM. On Labor Day, the Castle Museum will have a delayed opening, hosting its first tour of the day at 2 PM. With its closing, many perishable items and other select merchandise are discounted at the Castle Museum’s gift shop. While the Castle Museum and Carriage House are closing on Labor Day, the Bair Museum will still be open for a while longer. Also opening on Memorial Day annually, the Bair Museum adjusts its hours following Labor Day before closing for winter in October. The museum, located in Martinsdale, is home to collections of the late Bair Family. The climate-controlled venue offers a peek into the life of the prominent family, as well as sports a one-of-a-kind art gallery. The Bair Museum, prior to Labor Day, is open seven days a week from 10 AM to 4 PM. Next week, following the patriotic holiday, the museum will transition to a schedule of 10 AM to 4 PM on Wednesday through Sunday. The Bair Museum will then close for the winter months at the end of October. As the museums observe new or closed hours, the transition marks a clear end of the warm season. As summer fades into fall, the museums promoting Meagher County’s history must close to preserve their well-maintained collections. This seasonal closure ensures that these treasured artifacts and exhibits are protected and maintained for future visitors to enjoy. Visitors can look forward to the reopening in the spring when the museums will once again offer a rich glimpse into the region's past. Photo via Castle Museum and Carriage House Facebook Page.