Western Legacy Center's Montana Made Gift Shop Open

While the museum portion of the Western Legacy Center (WLC) is still in the planning and implementation stages, the Montana Made gift shop within the WLC recently opened its doors to its first customers.

"First purchase at the Western Legacy Center" one local posted, showing a Montana Jam and Candle hand-poured soy candle. Many did not realize the gift shop had opened since the museum portion itself is not complete. But Pamela Polachi, the gift shop coordinator, is excited to announce they are open for business.

"Not only is the store open, we also have a rock and mineral display from around the world," Polachi said.

The museum portion was slated to open by Memorial Day 2022, but due to funding issues, this has not come to fruition. In June, Jefferson County Commissioner Leonard Wortman stated the WLC was "back to square one" after Jefferson Local Development Corporation decided to focus on other ventures. However, Wortman and Polachi have not let that setback deter them and they have moved forward with the WLC, adjusting as they go.

"Right now we are looking for Montana history items which locals would be willing donate or let the WLC borrow for Montana history-themed rooms, such as Native American culture, ranch history, rodeo, railroad, minerals, and more."

The gift shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and is located in the former Roberts Building, at 3 Whitetail Road in Whitehall.

If you are interested in donating or allowing the WLC to borrow items for future displays, please contact Pamela Polachi at 508-517-7600.