Garden of the Rockies launches new exhibit, seeks community support

The non-profit Garden of the Rockies Museum in Ronan is launching a new exhibit, based on the newspaper columns of one-time Ronan resident John Kidder. In addition, the museum is seeking local donations to help renovate the exterior area.

The Garden of the Rockies Museum is considered a local treasure that’s home to a variety of photos, books, tools, equipment and goods that reflect the history of the community and date back over a century. It’s located on Round Butte Road.

Established in 1975 by the Mission Valley Heritage Association, the museum’s express purpose is preserving memorabilia from the community. The MVHA was started in the 1950s by the Ronan Woman’s Club.

Museum pieces were originally housed in the basement of the Old Brick School. In 1980, the Catholic Church donated its Parish Hall, which was the first church in Ronan, to the museum, and it was moved to its current location on Round Butte Road to land donated by the Ronan School District.

Other attractions in the museum complex are the Sloan Stage Stop, a large machine shed and tool shed, the “Little Red School House,” the Round Butte School gymnasium, and a memorial rose garden.

At this point, the museum is preparing to add to its collection with a display reflecting a remarkable story of community and resilience. This compelling chapter in history came to life in 1951 when Ronan Postmaster Knute Johnson’s son-in-law, John Kidder, contracted polio and was placed in an iron lung. Kidder, a successful chemical engineer, and his family were airlifted from Connecticut to Montana and moved in with Johnson.

The entire community was called upon to help with his care. Undaunted, he started writing newspaper columns with the assistance of his wife, Barbara. They raised three children. This new exhibit takes visitors back in time, chronicling a local moment that captures an international reality.

The museum operates with an all-volunteer board, small grants and local donations. The Heritage Association is currently preparing for renovations to the exterior area to improve safety and long-term sustainability, and is asking for community support.

According to a press release, donations will help ensure the museum can continue to preserve and share the Mission Valley’s history.

The Garden of the Rockies Museum is open June, July and August from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday to Friday, and by appointment on weekends. To volunteer, donate or learn more, contact Diane Grant at 406-676-4298. Donations may be sent directly to Jan Myers, 33315 Canyon Mill Road, Ronan, MT 59864.