History

The Big Horn County Historical Society was organized in 1963.

In 1978, society volunteers accepted the challenge of developing a museum.  The Big Horn County Historical Museum opened in 1979, on a 22 acre vegetable farm located east of Hardin, which includes the original farmhouse and barn.  Through the years 24 authentic historic structures from throughout the county have been saved and moved to the site.  Each building features exhibits that represent that era.  Other exhibit buildings have been constructed on site to store horse drawn equipment, an extensive collection
of restored tractors, farm equipment and automobiles.

In 2012 the museum grounds expanded to 35 acres and a new museum building was constructed.  The new facility features a gallery, gift shop, research library, archives, visitor center and offices.  Exhibits in the gallery include: Fort Custer on the Big Horn, Plains Indians, Will James, Missionaries on the Reservation and a Millenary Shop.

Our complex continues to develop and guests will see the latest restoration efforts as they tour the museum.  The museum has become a focal point for our area’s rich culture and provides facilities for community gatherings and educational experiences. We encourage you to be our guest!