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PLACES: Museum at Central School

By Beacon Staff

Journey back in time and lose yourself in one of the most comprehensive collections of local history available in our area at the Museum at Central School in downtown Kalispell.

For nearly 100 years, the Central School building in Kalispell was a high school, junior high school, grade school and classroom for the Flathead Valley Community College. It’s fitting that the tradition of education is carried on there today.

The “Timber Exhibit – Sand Monkeys, Tie Hacks and River Pigs,” created by Flathead High School graduate Anna Saverud, chronicles the timber industry that spurred growth in the Flathead Valley and showcases an actual working sawmill as well as a timeline of photographs and events.

Currently on display on the first floor, browse the images by former Daily Inter Lake photographer Robin Loznak for a unique view of our more recent history. Or check out the 20th century radios showcasing everything from novelty and toy radios to a 1923 Atwater Kent tube radio kit for amateur enthusiasts.

The permanent collections include artifacts from Montana’s American Indian culture, a collection from the early pioneer Frank Bird Linderman’s family and steamboat history along Flathead Lake. Also coming soon to the permanent collection is a large 7-by-11 foot interactive model of Flathead Lake.

How to get there: The museum is located at the intersection of East Second Street and Second Avenue East in downtown Kalispell. For more information on exhibits visit www.yourmuseum.org.