The State of Montana and the Montana Historical Society have announced a $10.4 million gift from Montana native Norm Asbjornson to help complete construction of a new history museum and research center in Helena.

The gift from Asbjornson—who retired in 2022 as executive chair of Tulsa-based AAON, the heating and ventilation company he founded in 1987—will fund enhancements to the museum galleries at the 66,000-square-foot Montana Heritage Center, which is expected to be completed in 2025. The $104 million project, which includes renovations to the historical society’s current 70-year-old home, is a public-private partnership that has raised more than $57 million from individual donors and foundations, including a $25 million grant from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation.

“I look for projects that will be game changers for the state of Montana,” said Asbjornson. “This is an investment in the history of Montana and a gift to our current and future generations.

“With this donation, Norm leaves a tremendous legacy that will allow Montanans and visitors to our state to experience Montana history like never before,” said the state’s governor, Greg Gianforte. “When completed, the Montana Heritage Center will provide a world-class and unparalleled experience for visitors.

(Photo credit: Montana Heritage Center)