Nancy Cooper Russell—wife and business manager of renowned western artist Charles M. Russell—was a woman ahead of her time. A self-taught business woman with the propensity to take charge, Nancy helped Charlie Russell become the highest paid living artist of his time.

Under Nancy’s guidance, the Russells traveled extensively, exhibiting in major cities across the United States as well as in Canada and London. While Charlie’s paintings vividly captured the waning days of the mythical Wild West, much of the inspiration for his remarkable art came from the natural landscape of Montana itself.

In 1905, the Russells bought land in what would become Glacier National Park. Thereafter, they spent every summer for the next twenty years at the cabin they built on the shores of Lake McDonald, entertaining friends and prominent artists of the day, exploring the park, and reveling in the rugged beauty of the mountains.


Join historic interpreter Mary Jane Bradbury as she brings Nancy Russell to life, sharing the story of life with Montana’s cowboy artist, his gift for portraying, in image and story, the west of
our imaginations, and his abiding connection to the place he called home.

This program is free to the public, and will be held in the visitor center at 7pm.

Space is limited so please call ahead to register you and your family. (406) 755-2706