America's Cowboy Artist

Many historians believe the work of Charles M. Russell perfectly portrays the "Old West." The legendary artist spent most of his adult life in and around Great Falls. Only someone who lived the cowboy life, as Russell did, could have so fully captured the level of realism and emotion of Montana in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Russell's bronzes, watercolor and oil paintings and illustrated letters are a treat to any history buff as well as those who appreciate great art.

C.M. Russell Museum Complex
Charlie Russell completed nearly 4,000 works of art during his lifetime, and the C.M. Russell Museum Complex in Great Falls owns the most complete collection of his works and personal objects in the world.

A commemorative bronze statue of Russell greets guests at the complex, which includes the artist's home, his original log cabin studio and a 46,000-square-foot museum. In addition to the great Russell pieces, the museum contains the works of such renowned artists as O.C. Seltzer, Joseph Henry Sharp, E.I. Couse, Winold Reiss, E.E. Heikka, Olaf Wieghorst and Edward Curtis. Also on permanent display is the Browning Firearms Collection.

Jake Hoover's Cabin
Among the many historical attractions in the area is Jake Hoover's Cabin, 70 miles southeast of Great Falls. This authentically rebuilt log and sod cabin belonged to hunter/trapper Jake Hoover, who taught a young Charlie Russell the ways of the mountain man, wildlife and Indians.