About us
Our Story
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
The Little Bear School House was originally built in 1912 as a one-room schoolhouse serving the children of Gallatin Gateway. For decades, it stood as a beacon of education and community, shaping the lives of countless students until its closure in the mid-20th century. Rather than allowing this piece of history to fade, local families and community members came together to preserve the building and its legacy. Through dedication, fundraising, and volunteer efforts, the schoolhouse was restored and reopened as a museum in 1998. Since then, it has grown into a vibrant hub for education, cultural preservation, and family engagement. Our journey reflects the resilience and spirit of our community, and today we continue to honor that legacy by offering programs that connect children and families to both history and one another. The impact of our work can be seen in the joy of children discovering old school desks, the pride of parents watching their children learn, and the sense of unity that comes from celebrating our shared heritage
WHO WE ARE
Celebrating History, Nurturing Young Minds
Little Bear School House Museum and Historical Society is more than a museum—it is a living classroom where children and families can experience the richness of Montana’s past while engaging in meaningful educational opportunities. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that children learn best when they are immersed in environments that combine exploration, storytelling, and hands-on activities. We emphasize safety, trust, and inclusivity, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. What makes us unique is our ability to bridge the gap between history and early education. By preserving artifacts and stories from our community’s past, we provide children with a foundation of cultural awareness while also nurturing their social, emotional, and intellectual growth. Families who join us find not only a place of learning but also a welcoming community dedicated to raising thoughtful, confident, and compassionate young learners.
What We Do
Learning Through History and Play
At Little Bear School House Museum and Historical Society, we offer a unique blend of educational programs, interactive exhibits, and family-centered activities. Our daily programs are designed to engage children in hands-on learning experiences that combine history, creativity, and play. Children might explore authentic artifacts, participate in storytelling sessions, or engage in art and craft projects inspired by Montana’s past. We believe that learning should be joyful and meaningful, so our approach emphasizes curiosity, exploration, and collaboration. Our educators and volunteers guide children through activities that not only teach academic skills but also foster social and emotional development. By integrating history into early education, we help children build a strong sense of identity and belonging while preparing them for future learning. Families who participate in our programs find that their children gain not only knowledge but also confidence, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
Join Us
Building a Career with Purpose At Little Bear School House Museum and Historical Society, we believe that our team is the heart of our mission. We are always looking for dedicated, compassionate, and creative individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of children and families. Our team culture is built on collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to safety and excellence. Working with us means joining a supportive environment where your talents are valued and your contributions have a lasting impact. Career opportunities range from educators and program coordinators to administrative and community engagement roles. The application process is simple: interested candidates can submit their resume and cover letter to our email, and our leadership team will follow up with next steps. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, as we believe that a variety of perspectives strengthens our ability to serve families. Joining our team is more than a job—it is a chance to be part of a community that values history, education, and the future of every child.