Conrad Mansion

The Conrad Mansion in Kalispell, Montana has lovingly been restored to its original beauty, showing off architectural features from the 1890’s.  Architect Kirtland Cutter, who also designed the Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park, was brought in by the Conrad family to design their home in 1892.  After 3 years of construction, the 13,000 sq. ft. home was ready for occupancy.

The mansion was always owned by the Conrad family, until it was gifted to the city of Kalispell in1974. Since that time, the city has created a museum which depicts life at the turn of the last century.  The mansion currently shows off the beautiful sawn oak trim, diamond-paned leaded glass windows, tiffany style windows, and arches, which Mr. Cutter was so famous for.

Electricity was just coming to the public at the time of the mansion’s construction.  Lighting in the house is electric, with a carbide gas back up.  There is also a freight elevator, dumbwaiter, built in fire hoses on each level, an intercom, a speaking tube, and an electric call box.  All of these were innovations for the time period.

Charles E. Conrad had a key role in the settling of the northwest.  He made his initial fortune in transportation in the Fort Benton area before the railroads came to Montana.  He came to the Flathead Valley in 1891 and helped to found the city of Kalispell.  He started his own buffalo herd, a precursor to the National Buffalo Range herd.

Regular season tours are available from mid May through Mid October. They take place on the hour.  No reservations are necessary.  In the winter season, the mansion is available by appointment only.  Call ahead to arrange a tour.  Keep your eye out for special events at the Conrad Mansion, especially during Halloween and Christmas. The first floor is handicapped accessible,  although there are steps to get to the front porch.