Discovering the Rich History of Grant-Kohrs Ranch
Early Beginnings
The story of Grant-Kohrs Ranch begins with a savvy business idea in the 1840s. Canadian brothers Johnny Francis Grant and James made a name for themselves by trading one healthy cow or horse for two worn-out animals from travelers on the Oregon Trail. Over time, their herd grew significantly, leading Johnny to use Deer Lodge Valley for grazing.
In 1859, riding on the wave of success, Johnny built a ranch in the valley and settled there permanently. He married a local Shoshone woman and several others through alliances, creating a large family. He persuaded other traders to join him, laying the foundation for what is now the town of Deer Lodge.
Johnny’s unfamiliarity with English contracts, combined with prevalent racial prejudices, led to frustrations. In 1866, he decided to sell his land to Conrad Kohrs and returned to Canada.
The Era of Conrad Kohrs
Conrad Kohrs arrived in Montana seeking gold but struck it rich by selling beef to local miners instead. He amassed a herd of over 50,000 cattle grazing on more than 10 million acres. Unlike many cattle owners who went bankrupt after a harsh winter, Kohrs persevered. Alongside his half-brother John Bielenberg, he became known as the Montana Cattle King.
Becoming a National Historic Site
By the 1960s, the Grant-Kohrs Ranch was proposed as a National Historic Site. In the 1970s, Con Warren sold his ranch to the National Park Service, insisting it continue as a living ranch. Additional land was purchased, and in 1972, the park officially became the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. Many original buildings remain, including the ranch house decorated by Augusta Kruse Kohrs.
Visiting Grant-Kohrs Ranch
The present ranch, though reduced from its original 10 million acres, still spans over 1,600 acres and operates as a working cattle ranch. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by a set of brown buildings housing the visitor center and restrooms—a perfect starting point.
Roaming cattle and various horses, including impressive Belgian Draft horses, can be seen around the ranch. A walk along the paths reveals historic buildings like the ranch house and a chuck wagon, once a hub for cowboys on the range.
Activities and Exploration
– Historic Buildings: Explore numerous historic structures dating back to the days of Grant and Kohrs.
– Ranch House Tours: Available several times a day, though space is limited.
– Trails: Ranging from short half-mile walks to multi-mile trails, allowing for an expansive view of the landscape.
– Learning Opportunities: Discover more about Montana’s history and the environmental efforts to clean the nearby river. Stories from the chuck wagon provide insights into cowboy life.
Practical Information
– Address: 251 Grant Circle, Deer Lodge, MT 59722
– Visitor Center: Located near the parking lot, offering a small shop.
– Tours: Limited to 12 people, with the last tour at 3:30 pm.
– Park Hours: 9:00 – 5:30 (Memorial Day – Labor Day), 9:00 – 4:30 (rest of the year).
– Fees: Free
– National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the Visitor Center.
– Website: [Official NPS Grant-Kohrs Site](#)
Directions to Grant-Kohrs Ranch
– From Missoula (Eastbound): Take I-90E to Exit 184, turn right onto I-90BL E, then right after 3/4 mile.
– From Butte (Westbound): Take I-90W to Exit 184, turn left onto I-90BL E, then right after 3/4 mile.
– Distances:
– Bozeman (via Butte): 124 miles (2 hrs)
– Butte: 40 miles (35-40 minutes)
– Missoula: 80 miles (1 hr 15 minutes)
– Helena: 54 miles (1 hr)
Whether exploring its rich history or enjoying its scenic trails, Grant-Kohrs Ranch offers a glimpse into Montana’s vibrant past and enduring legacy.