05/26/2026
Join the discussion about America's & Montana's 250 Plans, Commemoration and Activities with Molly Stockdale.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the Missoula Public Library. 6 PM. 4th Floor. Cooper Rooms.
What did Montana look like in1776?
Hear how the people of our state contributed to the nation in a presentation,
highlighting eight historical figures who changed Montana, the U.S., and the world.
MOLLY STOCKDALE'S MONTANA 250 BIOGRAPHY
Molly has worked in nonprofit management, primarily in museums, for 30 years. She is currently the Executive Director of Travelers’ Rest Connection, a significant historic site of the Lewis & Clark Expedition and the Selis Qlispe people. Molly has worked with Mister Rogers on a children’s museum exhibit, raised funds to support individuals with developmental disabilities, been a stay-at-home mom and PTO president, and is a survivor of ovarian cancer. Molly received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her Masters of Public Management from Carnegie Mellon University. She is President-Elect of the Destination Missoula Board of Directors and has been a member of the Women’s Giving Circle of Missoula County since its inception. She is Montana's Advocate Leader for the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. Molly lives in Missoula with her husband, two young adult sons, and one very large dog.
Montana 250th Commission
July 4, 2026, will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America. This occasion represents a unique opportunity to engage with our nation’s history, including the millennia of Indigenous history prior to the founding of the United States, and to reflect upon how this knowledge of our country’s past can build a stronger future.
The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to orchestrate nationwide activities in recognition of the 250th anniversary. Many state governments across the country have created their own commissions to implement commemorations on a local level, adapting initiatives to the distinct historic contexts of their states.
Accordingly, the 2023 Montana Legislature passed House Bill 0377, establishing the Montana 250th Commission to coordinate statewide efforts to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial. The objectives of this commission are to promote civic engagement and increase public awareness of United States and Montana government and history, including the history of Tribal nations. The eleven-member commission will work with partners to:
Increase participation in the United States civics test, as well as youth proficiency in United States and Montana government and history and in the distinct and unique heritage of American Indians through Indian Education for All (IEFA);
Recognize schools for outstanding achievement in civics and proficiency in history, government, and IEFA;
Plan, coordinate, and implement an overall program to build public awareness of and foster public participation in celebrating and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the independence and founding of the United States;
Draw attention to the achievements, honors, innovations, and significance of the people in this state and recommend ways for this state to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the independence and founding of the United States;
Recognize the vibrant Indigenous cultures living in this place in 1776;
Emphasize the service and sacrifices of veterans who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom;
And celebrate and commemorate with events and activities throughout this state.
