SPRING RENDEZVOUS 2026+ REVIEW

Our 2nd annual Spring event is now in the books. The Venue and people at this facility were a pleasure to work with.

Scott Smith, the Tax, did an awesome job coordinating all of this. The number of hours and planning it takes to make it come together is incredible. Each and every one who volunteered did a great job of taking their tasks and completing them. These are some of the ones that took on these responsibilities. 

Justin had bleachers and trees lined up. Tressa had the computers working and all the packets put together. Jen and John had lodgings lined up. Paul was setting up the demo site. Larry and Mort had all the firearms ready. Scott the hound had the banquet in control with Larry and Mort assisting. Russell and family had breakfast’s and dinner all lined up. Kim was working on the kid’s area. Brad and Monica did a good job running the MFH booth. Bill has the best attitude, keeping us all smiling and putting some awesome advertising together. Scott, the tax, has orchestrated the whole thing. I couldn't be prouder of all the people who have been working on this. If I missed anyone, I feel bad. Not only all of this but during the events, everyone stepped in to help each other wherever they could.

We had a long list of members and guests that also stepped up to help whenever we needed them.

Even the Vendors helped and donated many things for the banquet.

 Again, this entire group is wonderful to work with and support each other. Our attendance was not as strong as hoped but we still had over 500 attendees, not counting banquet guests., we did not cover all expenses, but we sure put on a great event and we’ll make up for it next year.   

We got the chance to meet special guests from the History Channel's acclaimed show, THE MOUNTAIN MEN!.  Visiting with Tom and Nancy Oar, Paul Antczak, Jake Herak from Montana, as well as Bret Bohn, Ivy O’Guinn, and Lauro Ecklund from Alaska, Josh Kirk—plus other cast members. These guests were hosting vendor booths throughout the event, giving you the opportunity to interact with them and learn more about their experiences.

Special thanks to Marc and Heather Dayton and Friend from Billings. They volunteered to help Kim in the Kids area. When they got here they went shopping for more items. Kim said they were FANTASTIC!  “They donated a lot of stuff as well and it was WONDERFUL to have their help!  In fact they would like to take over for next year and do the planning for kids’ events! They have some great ideas!” I tried to reimburse them for all that they bought but they refused and said they will use them at other events.

The competition for the best dressed Mountain Man contest was very competitive. In the end it came down to these two. The crowd chose the finalist by their applause and cheers. This year the hatchet award went to the youngest contestant. Cast member, Josh Kirk presented the award.

Kids competed in different events and took home prizes.

Guests were able to explore a wide selection of authentic memorabilia and wares from the Mountain Men Era. Displays included fur pelts, traditional garments, live demonstrations, and educational seminars. Attendees also learned about modern wildlife management methods through interactive exhibits and discussions. For added fun, games and raffles were available for those who chose to participate. 

These remarkable handcrafted hatchets by Scott and Barb Smith were prized awards!

Some of the Auction items from the Era were Bleached Buffalo Skull, hand made Axe, hooped beaver display,custom hand made leather scabbard, etched leather wall display, some wonerful era prints

Visitors entering the main floor Vendor Area were greeted by this scene. The Buffalo Tepee set the stage for the rest of the show. True Heritage Encampment by the Flathead Kootenai Muzzleloaders was outstanding. The live fire with the muzzelloaders got attention.

This along with Flint Napper Tom showing skills on making actual arrowheads from flint and obsidian was a big attraction.

Heritage themes were emphasized throughout the event, highlighting the cultural significance of traditional practices and crafts. Attendees were encouraged to explore the history behind each demonstration, connecting modern experiences with time-honored values. 

As an event celebrating Montana heritage, we encourage all attendees to dress in attire representing the time period. This adds to the authenticity and enjoyment of the occasion, helping everyone connect with Montana’s rich history in the spirit of the era!. 

Expositions of different historical practices used such as, use of horses, hounds, muzzle loader shoots, axe throwing, trap setting, fur handling, archery and tanning hides.    

Seminars ran hourly through out both days.Hunting and consevation speakers

Many joined us for the Banquet Banquet Saturday evening featuring Montana Prime Smoked Waygu Beef Brisket with Baked potatoes, Cole slaw and Mac & Cheese for the delicious side dishes. The evening featured, drinks, a live auction, silent auction, games with exciting firearm prizes, a tribute to veterans, and plenty of raffle items, making it a memorable night for all attendees.

Guest Speaker, Tom Opre spoke during the banquet   His latest acclaimed release, The Real Yellowstone (2025), amplifies the voices of multigenerational ranching families across the American West, exploring their complex relationships with wildlife, land, and survival. With a global digital cinema premiere and screenings for state and federal policymakers, The Real Yellowstone has earned praise for its gritty realism and nuanced exploration of conservation, community rights, and the American rural experience. Notably, the film has been described as “a cinematic wake-up call” and has been featured in legislative briefings and environmental advocacy campaigns.