Montana: Stories of the Land
By Krys Holmes
"The content is engaging, the pictures are vibrant, and most importantly, it
includes Montana’s rich American Indian history in almost every chapter,"
- Linda McCulloch, State Superintendent
Over twelve thousand years of Montana history come to life in Montana: Stories
of the Land. This new book, created for use in teaching Montana history, offers
a panorama of the past - beginning with Montana's first people and ending with
life in the twenty-first century. Incorporating Indian perspectives, Montana:
Stories of the Land is the first truly multicultural history of the state. It
features hundreds of historical photographs, unique artifacts, maps, and
paintings largely drawn from the Society's extensive collections. Sidebar
quotations bring the stories of ordinary people alive while providing diverse
perspectives on important historical events.
Author Krys Holmes consulted with archivists, curators, archaeologists,
historians, and Indian educators to assure that the text is accurate and
inclusive. Society research historian Dave Walter, who initiated the project,
provided extensive guidance until his death in summer 2006. Holmes' lively
writing style and the attractive illustrations make Montana: Stories of the Land
a book that students and adults alike will enjoy.
About the Author
Krys Holmes is a native Montanan and a graduate of Rocky Mountain College in
Billings. After a stint as a reporter, she began writing about Montana's people,
history, and natural resources, including interpretive texts for Montana
historical sites and state parks. First and foremost a writer, Holmes used a
lively storyteller's voice to recount the history of Montana while relying on
the professional help of historians, educators, and scholars to assure the
book's accuracy. "I'm grateful that I had the chance to express my own
enthusiasm for and curiosity about the endless number of human stories that
weave together into Montana's story," she said. Holmes particularly appreciated
working with renown Montana historian Dave Walter and was honored to complete
the last big project in his life.
Generous donations for the project came from the Bair Trust, the Donnelley
Foundation, the Charlotte and Edward K. Wheeler Foundation, the Steele-Reese
Foundation, the Indian Education Division of OPI, the Dennis and Phyllis
Washington
Foundation, and PPL Montana.
Access the Montana:
Stories of the Land Companion Website and Online Teacher's Guide here.
