Our Story
In the 1970s, ranchers Harry Blair and Edgar “Slim” Gardner, along with fellow ranchers, recognized the urgent need to preserve the rich history of the High Plains. Their dedication led to the establishment of the High Plains Western Heritage Center, which opened its doors on September 1, 1989. This five-state regional museum celebrates the legacy of Old West pioneers and American Indians across North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Montana. The center showcases a diverse array of artifacts and stories, including those of pioneering, cattle and sheep ranching, rodeo, transportation, Native Americans, and mining.