Ninepipes Museum hosts event in honor of founders

Members of the community and supporters are invited to attend a special event at the Ninepipes Museum in Charlo from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 17, to celebrate a special achievement with founders Bud and Laurel Cheff. Bud was honored for the 2021 Montana Heritage Keepers Award at the 48th annual Montana History Conference held in

Butte in September 2021. This is the highest award made each year by the Montana Historical Society board of trustees.

The July 17th celebration is also a fundraiser to benefit the nonprofit 501(c)3 museum. Tickets are $30 per person. There is limited space for the event and only 75 tickets will be sold.

The Heritage Keeper Award honors those whose efforts have had a significant impact on generating interest in and preserving Montana’s history and heritage. Bud was selected for his outstanding contributions to the historical community through his work to establish and operate the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana, which speaks to Montana’s cultural heritage and past.

Montana Historical Society former president and CSKT Council member Steve Lozar will give a brief talk about the significance of the Heritage Keeper Award and the importance of preserving the history and

culture of the valley. A short, live auction and raffle drawing will kick off fundraising for museum operations. Enjoy refreshments, view a special display of Laurel’s artwork and listen to traditional Metis fiddle music. Call Ninepipes Museum at 406-644-3435 to purchase tickets.