Prior to moving to Montana, I would search the internet for information about different locales, climate, and other demographics. One thing that became evident, as I poked around to get a feel for things, was the longevity of many of its residents. Obituaries had a number of people that had lived well into their 80's and 90's who had enjoyed long and useful lives.
Now, Montana boast to having Walter Breuning of Great Falls. At 112, he is the oldest man in the United States and one of the oldest people in the world. He remembers reading by kerosene lantern and hearing the first words come over the radio. He knew the founder of the Great Northern Railroad and often saw Charlie Russel in the Mint Bar in Great Falls. Charlie Russel is the famous western artist who left his home in St. Louis at the age of 16 to follow his dream of becoming a cowboy. His rich and colorful artwork depicts sweeping landscapes, native peoples, and cowboys on the range. He fell in love with Montana and through vivid shades of purple, orange, and yellow, he captured the true spirit of the west during the late 1800's and early 1900's.
We were lucky enough to visit the Charlie Russell museum in April of 2007 where E was inspired by his work and I was impressed with his unique ability to capture the essence of light in his paintings.
Picture taking is not allowed inside, so here is a photo of M & E with Dad in front of the museum. You can read more about this adventure in M & E's article titled Great Falls, Montana.
