.jpg?fit=outside&w=1600&h=900)
Photo courtesy of Carbon County Historical Society & Museum
Honoring Heritage in Carbon County
There’s something magical about walking into a building that has stood tall for over a century, especially when that building has seen it all, from union halls and roller rinks to rifle clubs and, now, a museum that keeps the heart of Carbon County beating.
Nestled in the charming downtown of Red Lodge, the Carbon County Historical Society & Museum isn’t just a stop, it’s a whole experience. Housed in the historic Labor Temple built in 1909 (yes, using a quarter of a million bricks from the Fromberg Brick Yard!), this space was once the vibrant hub for more than a thousand local union miners. Today, it stands as a living tribute to the stories that shaped Carbon County’s past, present, and future.
Whether you're a hardcore history buff or just chasing a good Montana road trip, this museum offers a one-of-a-kind, family-friendly experience. Two floors of exhibits, fully accessible with an elevator and wide, open walkways, make it easy to explore the immersive coal mining displays, legendary rodeo artifacts from the Greenough and Linderman families, and the always-captivating Waples gun and projectile point collection. And don’t miss the local gift shop, filled with historical books and handmade items from Montana artists and authors.
Established in 1959 by rodeo legend Alice Greenough, the museum's journey has evolved as dynamically as the town itself. Thanks to an anonymous donation in 1990, the historic Labor Temple became its forever home, and since reopening in 1999, the Carbon County Historical Society has worked tirelessly to keep the stories of this corner of Montana alive and thriving. From helping with genealogy projects to preserving tales of old buildings and community landmarks, they’re a trusted neighbor and an irreplaceable local asset.
A Summer Celebration You Can’t Miss
Festival of Nations Tribute | June 27–29, 2025
This summer, the Carbon County Historical Society & Museum is celebrating 75 years of Red Lodge’s beloved Festival of Nations with a special tribute event. Honoring the diverse heritages that helped shape the community, the weekend will feature traditional music, dance, food, games, cultural talks, and more. The museum will host events connecting today’s visitors with the stories and people who brought this cherished tradition to life—inviting everyone to be part of the celebration.
Mark Your Calendar
And if you’re planning your summer road trip through Red Lodge, make room for these upcoming events hosted by the museum:
- June 4: Finnish Kaleva Park Field Trip & Picnic @ 11AM
- June 12: Speaker Series – Marv Keller & Joan Brownell, YBRA @ 5PM
- June 27–29: Festival of Nations Tribute – ALL WEEKEND
- July 16: YBRA Field Trip & Picnic @ 11AM
- July 25: Pop-Up Museum with Elevation Science – Free Admission Day!
- July 26: GEO-ECO Tour Film Release @ Roman Theater, 3PM
- August 14: Speaker Series – Black Diamonds @ 4:30PM
- August 28: Speaker Series – Heart Mountain @ 5PM
- September 3: Skiing Red Lodge Field Trip @ 9AM
- September 4: Historic Preservation Meeting @ 10AM
- September 11: All Nations Garden Club @ 5PM
- October 4–5: Montana Cowgirl Showdown @ Roman Theater
- October 9: Hemingway in the Yellowstone High Country Talk @ 5PM
(Pro tip: Follow them on Facebook for updates—event dates are subject to change!)
The museum’s central location comes with perks, outdoor seating with views of Mount Maurice and the bustle of downtown Red Lodge. It’s perfect for curious families, solo adventurers, history lovers, or anyone with a soft spot for the Old West.
224 North Broadway Ave., Red Lodge, MT
carboncountyhistoricalsociety.com
406-446-3667
director@carboncountyhistory.com
And if you're rolling through with a road trip playlist, may we suggest queuing up "Highwayman" by The Highwaymen? It pairs perfectly with the museum’s rugged, resilient spirit.
Admission helps support this local nonprofit, and every visitor keeps Carbon County’s story alive. Whether you’re five or eighty-five, a lifelong local or a weekend wanderer, there’s a story waiting for you here.
