Located in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, the Daly Mansion is a historic house once owned by the Copper King of Montana, Marcus Daly.
Operated by the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust and sponsored by the Montana State Historical Society, the monumental mansion has been recognized as a Distinctive Building by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
What is the Daly Mansion History?
The Daly Mansion dates back to 1886 when Marcus Daly first purchased the Anthony Chaffin Homestead.
As one of the three “Copper Kings” of Montana, Daly was one of the wealthiest individuals in the state and had bought up the entire 22,000 acres and buildings that made up the Anthony Chaffin Property. Among his new holdings was the old farmhouse.
In 1889 Daly remodeled the farmhouse, and in 1897 he completely upgraded the building to a Queen Anne-style Victorian Mansion that would, from then on, serve as his family’s summer residence.
The historic building received further renovations in 1910, when Margaret Daly, Marcus’ widow, converted the mansion to a Georgian-Revival style, which is still seen in the building.
Thanks to the efforts of the State of Montana and the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust, visitors to the mansion can still see the luxurious comforts the original owners had instilled into their property.
The three-story 24,000 square-foot mansion features over 50 beautiful rooms, including 25 bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. Also accentuating the colossal home are seven fireplaces, five of which were built with imported Italian Marble.
If you want to learn more about the history of the Daly Mansion, you can watch this short documentary here.
What Is There to See and Do at the Daly Mansion?
The Daly Mansion is a testament and preservation of Montana’s high society around the turn of the 20th century.
Visitors to the mansion have the opportunity to explore the extravagant side of Montana’s wealthy historical residence through various tours, public events, and private gatherings.
Daly Mansion Tours
One of the most accessible ways to explore the Daly Mansion is through a guided or self-guided tour.
The mansion’s professional tour guides are well-trained and knowledgeable in the history, legacy, and stories that have gone into the construction of the building and the daily lives of its residents.
Alternatively, self-guided booklets are included in admission fees for those that prefer to explore the mansion at their own pace.
During the mansion’s season of operations, self-guided tour times are at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Guided tours run every hour on the hour, starting at 11:00 am and ending a 2:00 pm.
Public Events
The Daly Mansion offers a variety of fun and engaging activities planned throughout its season of operations.
From Aspen Leaf Yoga Sessions to interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Parties, the Daly Mansion Museum events hold a distinct ability to transport their visitors to a time where social gatherings and house calls were a trademark of high-society living.
Check out the Daly Mansion’s schedule for a complete list of all the exciting events and activities the museum has planned.
Private Events
Located in 46 tree-planted acres of Bitterroot Valley just outside Hamilton, Montana, the historic Daly Mansion offers a beautiful destination for hosting any private gathering or event, be it a wedding, a family reunion, or even a birthday.
To best accommodate their guests, the Daly Mansion offers three venue options. During the summer months, from Mid-May to Mid-October, the Daly Mansion offers outdoor grounds and a tent for special events.
However, as the season cools, the events move indoors. Throughout the off-season, the mansion rents its first-floor rooms for events and social gatherings. The estate also offers its large Trophy Room for year-round venue rentals.
How to Visit the Daly Mansion
The Daly Mansion is located at 251 Eastside Hwy Hamilton, MT 59840.
General admission fees are as follows;
- $15 for adults
- $14 for Seniors (60+) or Military
- $8 for Youth ages 6-17
- Children 5 and Under Tour Free
The Daly Mansion operates from June 6 until October 1. The mansion is closed to the public for the duration of the Winter but remains open to private bookings.
During the Daly Mansions season of operations, guided tours run every hour between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. Self-guided tourists are welcome at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Call (406)363-6004 before visiting for more information regarding private events or public tours at the Daly Mansion.
Conclusion
The Daly Mansion is a wonderous preservation of one of Montana’s wealthiest historical residents. Constructed in 1889 and undergoing several renovations over 20 years, the mansion serves as a monument immortalizing the lifestyle of Montana’s historical high society.
Beyond the beautifully preserved home, the mansion also features 46 acres of pristine countryside in the breathtaking Bitterroot Valley.
Between the mansion’s authentic charms and the region’s picturesque beauty, the Daly Mansion is a spectacular location for exploring Montana culture or celebrating a special event.
Check the Daly Mansion’s schedule before visiting to ensure your trip is met with the optimal experience for exploring the destination’s wonderous grounds.