Charles J. Belden Museum
1947 State Street in Meeteetse (307) 868-2264

This museum features the work of Charles J. Belden, personal and family memorabilia, Western paintings, Indian artifacts, and sculptures. The photographic work of Charles J. Belden documents life on the Pitchfork Ranch earlier in this century. His photographs contributed much to establishing the current myth of the West. This building also houses the Meeteetse Museum collection, a wildlife display including a mount of one of the largest Grizzly bears ( “Little Wab”) ever taken in the lower 48 states. Also on display are artifacts from the Pitchfork Ranch, a Buffalo Bill Cody display and the Olive Fell collection.

Belden was born in San Francisco, California, on November 16, 1887. He was raised in California and graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1910. It was while at the Institute that he became friends with Eugene Phelps, who was to become his brother-in-law. After graduation Charles married Frances Phelps and came to the Pitchfork Ranch. During the 1920s, 30s, and 40s Charles Belden’s photographs appeared in many newspapers across the country and in the National Geographic. His photographs appear today in western history books, calendars, and museums. Today there are over 4,200 negatives of his work. Part of the collection is in the archives collection at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming. The remainder is at the ranch and museum. Belden’s abilities with the older type cameras were never surpassed. He captured scenes that have never been equaled, even with modern equipment. His artistry is evident in each of his photographs.

The museum is open daily from May 1 through September 30. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

Reprinted from museum brochure and web site.