STRUCTURAL STABILIZATION AND ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT

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Today, however, these issues have forced themselves to the front.  The roof has reached the end of its nearly half century of service, and the structural areas have become more pressing.  The chimneys on the Martin's Cafe and Baggage Room buildings have, in spite of some reinforcement, compromised to potentially dangerous points.  Leaks and ice damming on the roof have led to crumblings in the undergirding masonry support structure, all of which have been documented in recent newsletters.   In addition, an engineering report made further structural recommendations to help preserve the building from the seismic effects of the freight trains that pass daily some forty feet from the front of the buildings.   

The Depot Foundation, mindful of the high costs of this project, has been actively working to lay the foundation for this task.  Concerned residents, rail enthusiasts, and foundations have begun to help generously, the State of Montana has helped with its Tourism Infrastructure Improvement Program (TIIP), and the Montana congressional delegation has helped us to secure a federal matching funding grant through the Save America's Treasures program to assist local contributions dollar for dollar, effectively doubling the power of your help.  But even this grant only becomes available only in step with the aid of the individual donors who value this community center and its work:  you remain at the project's heart.  

If you wish to help us out with this important work, please be in touch.  Donations are tax-deductible, and a video presentation describing this work (VHS or DVD) is available upon request.  You can call Museum Director Diana Seider at (406) 222-2300 during our business hours, generally Monday-Friday from 9 to 5, or write us at the address at the top of this page.  Your participation is very appreciated.