07/19/2026
Museum Location Selection Criteria:
Accessibility
The bank property is a centrally located landmark in the commercial center of the community of Chinook…
Historical or Cultural Relevance
Given the building’s age, over 50-years old, Brutalist architectural style, association with the architectural firm of Davidson & Kuhr Architects of Great Falls, and design architect William Kuhr’s family connection to a ranch in the Bears Paw Mountains and Chinook, the property is eligible for listing under National Register Criteria B and/or C…
Cost to Acquire, Renovate, or Build
The Blaine County Historical Foundation is prepared to gift this building and necessary renovations and additions to the citizens of Blaine County, providing a much needed relocation of the current Blaine County Museum. There is no cost to Blaine County to acquire or renovate the building, nor to build the proposed addition.
Operating Cost Impact
…improvements to the existing building’s plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems that include energy and water conservation improvements…reduce operational costs.
Economic Development Potential
The reuse of the bank preserves the historic resource and returns an otherwise unused asset within the commercial center of Chinook back to an active vibrant asset that supports adjacent businesses and new business opportunities.
The museum’s use may be an opportunity to develop a community meeting room including, with access controls, after-hours use of the room.
Parking and Traffic
Access to parking, accessible parking, sidewalk, and public emergency services and fire response services are within easy range and access.
Environmental Suitability
Site conditions are generally in good to fair condition. … It is worth noting that given the existing drainage condition and drive through lane design the bank basement is dry and without evidence of moisture intrusion.
The basement area is in good condition. …there is no evidence of moisture intrusion in the basement.
Community Support and Political Feasibility
There is support from the community regarding relocating the Museum. The BCHF plans to host a community meeting to encourage input from the residents of Blaine County.
Partnership Alignment
Our common goal is to present the history of Blaine County in the best possible means. We all are proud of our history, and the necessity of presenting it in a facility which is climate stable, bug and pest free, and environmentally appropriate is tantamount.
Future Expansion Potential
There is sufficient site area to construct an addition meeting the museum’s anticipated space needs.
Overall summary of recommendations:
Recommendations found in this investigation include renovating the Blaine County Bank / Wells Fargo Bank and moving the Blaine County Museum (BCM) into the structure, and incorporating an expansion on the east drive through site to further accommodate BCM’s operations needs [now] and into the foreseeable future. Improvements and the building addition would support public access including handicap access to the museum’s displays and collection and include improvements to the existing building’s plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems that include energy and water conservation improvements that reduce operational costs.
