Montana Foundation Funds Repairs for Historic Fort Peck Theatre

The Foundation for Montana History awarded a $15,000 grant to the Fort Peck Fine Arts Council for critical structural preservation work.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A bold, graphic silkscreen illustration featuring the iconic facade of the Fort Peck Theatre repeated in a colorful grid, conceptually representing the preservation of this important community landmark.A vibrant pop art celebration of the historic Fort Peck Theatre, a cultural landmark in northeastern Montana that will receive critical preservation funding.Fort Peck Today

The Foundation for Montana History, a nonprofit based in Helena, announced its largest ever grant cycle this week, awarding over $255,000 to communities across Montana. This includes a $15,000 grant to the Fort Peck Fine Arts Council to fund a critical structural preservation project at the historic Fort Peck Theatre, including replacement of the heel connections on the roof trusses.

Why it matters

The Fort Peck Theatre is an iconic cultural landmark in northeastern Montana, having opened in 1934 as part of the New Deal-era Fort Peck Dam project. This grant funding will help ensure the continued preservation of the theatre, which serves as a hub for performing arts and community events in the region.

The details

The Foundation for Montana History's grant program has provided over $2.1 million in funding for community-based history and preservation projects across the state since 2012. This year, the foundation awarded grants to 26 different projects, including seven first-time recipients. The $15,000 grant to the Fort Peck Fine Arts Council will specifically support a truss heel replacement project at the historic Fort Peck Theatre.

  • The Foundation for Montana History announced its largest ever grant cycle this week.
  • The foundation has provided over $2.1 million in funding since starting its grant program in 2012.

The players

Foundation for Montana History

A nonprofit organization based in Helena, Montana that raises private funds and makes grants for community-based history initiatives.

Fort Peck Fine Arts Council

The organization responsible for managing and preserving the historic Fort Peck Theatre in northeastern Montana.

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The takeaway

This grant funding will help ensure the continued preservation of the iconic Fort Peck Theatre, which serves as a vital cultural hub for performing arts and community events in the region.