small copy dvorak.png

Western Frontier: Josef Dvorak Miniatures

At the time of the 1976 Bicentennial, America called upon her states to celebrate heritage and solidify their unique placement in the fabric of the United States of America. Organized efforts to commemorate the occasion included parades, celebrations, and establishments of historical societies including our own.

In the wave of this movement, the C. M. Russell Museum was compelled to illustrate how intentionally planned the city of Great Falls was by its founders during Charlie’s residence in here. With assistance from supporters of the Museum, the models were commissioned from master craftsman Josef Dvorak. Scale models of historic Great Falls buildings were created by the artist and the collection was affectionately referred to by many as “Old Town.” Why these buildings in specific were chosen to be depicted is not known, but their placement together illustrates that Great Falls was founded with high aspirations.

This collection was loaned and stored for decades at The History Museum/Cascade County Historical Society. Thanks to a recent gift from the C. M. Russell Museum, the Dvorak models now permanently call our museum home.

This exhibition includes Dvorak’s seven scale models of historic Great Falls buildings along with historic photographs and artifacts to experience what life was like in city on the western frontier.

Model of the Park Hotel, Josef Dvorak, 1976

Model of the Park Hotel, Josef Dvorak, 1976

 
The Park Hotel in Great Falls, MT, Photographer J. C. Cowles [2005.105.1-13]

The Park Hotel in Great Falls, MT, Photographer J. C. Cowles [2005.105.1-13]

The Grand Opera House, Elite Studio Photograph, 1906 [1994.039.0140]

The Grand Opera House, Elite Studio Photograph, 1906 [1994.039.0140]

 
Detail of blacksmith and livery model, Josef Dvorak, 1976

Detail of blacksmith and livery model, Josef Dvorak, 1976