$100,000 gift propels Carter County Museum expansion campaign

The Carter County Museum is thrilled to announce a generous $100,000 gift from Rhonda Kreitel Michalek to support the museum's ongoing expansion campaign. This significant contribution will play a vital role in nearly tripling the size of the museum, allowing more of the community and visitors to experience the rich history and culture of Carter County.

In recognition of this remarkable donation, the museum's children's areas and the highly anticipated "Ekalaktic Dome" multi-use community and planetarium space, which will be named in honor of Rhonda Kreitel Michalek and John Michalek. This donation will also support the expansion of Rhonda's great-grandmother Ijkalaka Russell's exhibit at the museum. These new features will provide engaging, educational experiences for children and families, making the museum a premier destination for learning and exploration in southeastern Montana. "This was one of the best and easiest decisions I have made," said Rhonda Kreitel Michalek. "My focus is to support education, preservation and the arts. The museum fulfills all of these. I am happy to lend my support and look forward to the expansion of this gem in southeastern Montana."

Currently, due to space limitations, 90% of the museum's extensive collection is in storage. The planned expansion will provide the necessary space to showcase these valuable artifacts, enhancing the museum's ability to educate and inspire. This gift brings the museum one step closer to its goal of creating a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a cornerstone of the region's cultural heritage.

 "The expansion of the Carter County Museum is not just about creating more space; it's about preserving our history, inspiring future generations, and enhancing our community," said Sabre Moore, Executive Director of the Carter County Museum. "We are deeply grateful to Rhonda and John for their generosity and vision in supporting this campaign." The Carter County Museum has been a beloved institution in Ekalaka since its founding, offering residents and visitors a unique glimpse into the natural history, paleontology, and cultural heritage of the region.

 About Carter County Museum

The Carter County Museum, located in Ekalaka, Montana, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history and prehistory of southeastern Montana. Established in 1936, it is the oldest county museum in Montana and is renowned for its paleontology exhibits, including a notable collection of dinosaur fossils. The museum is committed to education and community engagement, offering a variety of programs, exhibits, and events throughout the year.