History

The Schoolhouse History & Art Center (SHAC) is a historic community gathering place dedicated to providing the opportunity for cultural events, arts education, and preserving the culture and history of Colstrip and the surrounding area.

Originally built in 1924, the building served as a schoolhouse for the growing community of coal miners and area ranchers. Over the decades, the building took on many different roles, including teacherage and apartment housing. Eventually, it was left vacant and began to deteriorate, becoming increasingly vulnerable to vandalism and neglect.

In the 1980s, a group of concerned local citizens recognized the importance of saving the historic schoolhouse. They purchased the building from the local School Board for just one dollar and formed a charitable nonprofit organization with the goal of preserving the building and returning it to an active role in the community. Their vision was to create a place where local history could be remembered and the arts could flourish.

Today, SHAC houses two galleries that reflect both the history and creative spirit of the region. One gallery features historical photographs documenting the story of Colstrip and the surrounding area, including the development of coal mining and the people and communities shaped by it. The second gallery features rotating contemporary art exhibitions, bringing new artists, ideas, and perspectives to our community throughout the year.

The building's basement is home to a ceramics studio and classroom, where community members can participate in hands-on art experiences. From painting and drawing to ceramics, textiles, and other creative projects, SHAC provides opportunities for people to explore their creativity regardless of age or experience level.

While preserving the past is an important part of SHAC's mission, we are also focused on creating a vibrant future for the arts and culture of our community.

Throughout the year, SHAC offers a wide variety of arts education programs, workshops, exhibitions, community events, and outreach programs. We work with local schools, homeschool families, community organizations, visiting artists, and regional partners to make the arts accessible to people throughout southeastern Montana.

Our annual and ongoing programs include events such as the Gone to Pieces Quilt Show, Summer Golf Tournament, Student Art Show, Christmas Market, Colstrip Days celebrations, artist talks, workshops, family art programs, and presentations through the Montana Humanities Speakers Bureau. SHAC also provides educational opportunities for students and adults through classes, visiting artists, and community-based programming.

Our outreach efforts extend beyond the walls of the schoolhouse. SHAC works with area schools and community groups to bring art experiences to children and families throughout the region, helping ensure that access to creative opportunities isn't limited by geography.

What began as a small group of citizens determined to save an old schoolhouse has grown into a lively community arts and history center. Today, SHAC continues to honor the building's history while creating new memories within its walls.