Montana Heritage Commission Revitalizes Reeder’s Alley by Promoting Immersive Historical Experiences
As a state with a uniquely rich heritage, Montana’s historic landmarks are a key part of what makes its communities and tourism destinations vibrant. The Montana Heritage Commission, administratively attached to the Montana Department of Commerce, has been a steward of Montana’s history since its creation in 1997, preserving and managing historic resources across the state.
One of the MHC’s recent projects is the revitalization of Reeder’s Alley, a historic street located in Helena. Over the years, Reeder’s Alley has remained a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, but recent revitalization efforts are transforming it into an even more dynamic hub for community connection and economic activity.
Reeder’s Alley staff have often sought to engage people with its historic spaces; however, various challenges, such as the alley’s icy conditions in the winter and out-of-the-way location, occasionally left several of its buildings unoccupied.
The revitalization began with the vision of filling these spaces and introducing more retail opportunities into the alley. MHC staff hoped to occupy the empty units with businesses and entrepreneurs who reflected the unique character of the locations. Recent pop-up markets and collaborative partnerships have helped bring this vision to life.
Several local business owners have been key players in these efforts, including Chris Starr of Rockstarr BBQ, who has brought new energy to the alley’s restaurant space with high quality food and catering services. Other vendors — such as Mae and June Vintage Market, Jmacs Pottery, Aizada Imports, Cotton-Top Pastries and Lea Frye Photography — have highlighted the MHC’s ability to attract businesses that value history while simultaneously creating a lively, interactive environment.
For example, vendors created and participated in the recent “Lighting of the Alley” and “Christmas on Reeder’s” events, bringing crowds into the historical heart of Helena to celebrate the holidays. The events were successful due to the business owners’ tireless work, the participation of MHC staff and the Reeder’s Alley caretaker, John Murdy, who spent hours hanging strings and checking bulbs to ensure the alley was lit for the season.
Looking ahead, the MHC has plans to continue revitalization efforts. The weekly, grassroots-inspired “Summer Series” will return in 2025, hosted by the local philosophy non-profit, Merlin CCC. The series features live local music, food trucks, walking tours, living history demonstrations, lawn games and more.
The MHC team is also brainstorming ideas for the use of the Reeder’s Alley Conference Center, hoping to expand its purposes for year-round engagement.
Beyond Reeder’s Alley, the MHC’s broader mission is equally inspiring. Since 1997, the organization has taken a visionary approach to preservation, often activating historic properties on the brink of demolition. By introducing entrepreneurial business into these spaces, MHC ensures these treasures are not only preserved, but thriving. This model enables visitors to experience history in an immersive way while supporting small businesses and fostering appreciation for Montana’s heritage.
For the MHC, success is about creating spaces that feel alive. Kal Poole, executive director of MHC, noted that historical buildings that are utilized by local companies tend to be maintained better than buildings that are simply preserved while remaining empty.
“A business owner who cares about the history of the space brings life and love to the building that can’t be replicated any other way,” Poole shared. “When people experience history firsthand rather than as outside observers, the connection becomes tangible, and the results are transformative.”
For those looking to contribute to the meaningful work of promoting Montana’s heritage, the MHC welcomes engagement. Whether it’s visiting Rockstarr BBQ in Reeder’s Alley, or volunteering in the MHC’s other historic locations, Virginia City and Nevada City, every effort matters. Together, we can celebrate Montana’s historic treasures while ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come.
To learn more about the MHC, visit commerce.mt.gov.
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