"Unintended Consequences: 1918 - The Flu and World War I"

“Death is a personal thing, a deep family tragedy.”
In Missoula, the fourth largest community, the city’s hospitals were overwhelmed. The city and county officials struggled to deal with the outbreak. The community was desperate.
The Historical Museum presents a new exhibit, “Unintended Consequences: The 1918 Flu & World War I”, opening on Sunday, March 30.
According to historical documents the “Spanish Influenza” epidemic of 1918 was the most virulent flu epidemic in history. It killed more than 5,000 in Montana, more than 650,000 in the United States, and an incredible twenty to fifty million died worldwide.
At the same time the flu was taking its toll, America was still engaged in World War I. These two catastrophic events impacted the lives of many with devastating consequences.
Not only did the flu claim many civilian lives but the military was hit hard also. Some speculated they might be victims of biological warfare because Germany had already introduced chemical warfare in Europe. This was a time of turbulence and suspicion, and none more so than in Montana.
When asked why she chose this as a theme for the spring exhibit, L. Jane Richards, Senior Curator/Assistant Director of the Museum said, “I chose this theme because of its historical impact. The exhibit demonstrates the way science has treated the flu over the years since 1918. It’s also about how the war changed America and how its politics still affects us today.”

Opening mid-February will be "Recent Acquisitions" in the Southgate Mall Orientation Room

Opening April 27 is "Treasure State Remnants: Montana's Ghost Town Heritage"

This photography exhibit focuses on Montana's ghost town heritage and other historical relics of the 19th and early 20th century. There are photos of Bannack, the ORO Dude Ranch, Glendale, Coolidge, Alder Gulch, Elkhorn, Lion City, Navada Creek and other Montana places. The photographer is Lee Silliman of Deer Lodge, Montana.

Scavenger Hunts!

We have scavenger hunts for many aspects of the exhibits, both indoors and outdoors. These can be done independently or docent-led (if scheduled arrangements made). Just ask!

“Uncover Montana” Speaker’s Series

Starting the 3rd Thursday in June and running through September 6th, in conjunction with Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge and Traveler’s Rest, a topic of historical interest will be presented on Thursday evenings, 7:00 - 8:00. Please see the events calendar for weekly topics.