Montana 250th Commission’s book club

The Montana 250th Commission has a year-long series of virtual events designed to build excitement around the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026.  

“Montana Reads: The Treasure State's Book Club” is a monthly online book discussion that covers topics and figures from U.S., Montana and Tribal history. 

Each month, a member of the Montana 250th Commission will lead a presentation and discussion on books that explore myriad aspects of our shared history - from the founding fathers to Montana statesmen and women, cultural traditions to innovation. These monthly discussions will feature conversations around the books’ central themes, seeking applications to current challenges and initiatives facing our state and nation.  

Montanans are encouraged to participate in any event and when possible, to read the book in advance. 

All Montana Reads events are held by Zoom on the second Thursday of each month, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. On Sept. 11, the book is “The Only Plane in the Sky: An oral history of 9/11” with author Garrett Graff. On Oct. 9, the topic is “Mansfield and Dirksen: Bipartisan Giants of the Senate” with author Marc Johnson.  

To register for events, visit https://mths.mt.gov/education/index1,. Email [email protected] for any registration issues. 

In 2023, the Montana Legislature passed House Bill 377, establishing the Montana 250th Commission to coordinate statewide efforts to commemorate the U.S. semi quincentennial. To learn more about the Commission, or become a partner organization, visit america250mt.org or email [email protected].