Ethel Montgomery died recently but she left a legacy that leads to an important insight into this area’s history. She was the daughter of J.F. McAlear, who spearheaded the move to establish the Polson-Flathead Historical Museum.

When her father died, Ethel stepped up and was instrumental in carrying out his dream. She worked for many years in acquiring exhibits and artifacts, photos, documents and other memorabilia that show Polson and the area’s growth from the early days to the present.

She invested time, energy, and personal funds as she and the museum’s board of directors developed a plan that resulted in the present facility on Main Street. It wasn’t easy – short visitor seasons; a major obstacle is in the off-the-main traffic flow location. Over the years she and museum directors recruited new members, volunteers, caretakers and organizers. Today, the museum has an attractive layout featuring a stagecoach, wagons, wildlife mounts, sailboat, fire trucks, printing equipment, marionettes and much more.

The community can show its appreciation with memorial contributions to the museum operation, visiting the museum during its Memorial Day through Labor Day season, telling Polson visitors and guests about the facility, urging local businesses to make employees and customers aware of the attraction, purchase copies of J.F. McAlear’s “The Fabulous Flathead” (all proceeds go to the museum operation).

Former museum board president Lois Hart, responsible for much of the present design, said, “Perhaps we should have a plaque made in her memory because of all the work and financial support she and her family have given to the Polson Flathead Historical Museum.”

That would be most appropriate.