Patty Molinaro
Patty Molinaro
Patty Molinaro is Registered Angus beeder based in southwestern Montana and serves as the curator of the Carbon County Museum in Red Lodge. With a passion for history and research, Patty has made significant contributions to the understanding of the region’s past.
Her expertise in historical research is highlighted by her book on the history of Stillwater County and the Beartooth Mountains. This insightful work provides a captivating exploration of the area’s rich heritage, offering readers a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and natural history.
Patty’s dedication to preserving and sharing the stories of Montana’s past is an invaluable asset to Our Montana. Through her work at the Carbon County Museum, she continues to inspire others to connect with the history and heritage of this remarkable region.
Please check out a couple of Patty’s books below!

Beartooth Mountains, Montana
– Images of America Series –
Book Overview

Columbus and Stillwater County, Montana
– Images of America Series –
Book Overview

Origins of Crow Agencies in Montana
– Transitioning Beyond The Buffalo (American Heritage
Book Overview
“We do not know how to commence farming, but we are all willing to try.”―Crow leader Iron Bull
On May 7, 1868, the Treaty of Fort Laramie forever altered the Crow way of life, defining reservation boundaries and establishing a federal agency. Initially stationed at Fort Parker in 1869, the agency headquarters was later moved to Absaroka in 1875. These early agencies faced numerous challenges including the rapid westward expansion, violations of the treaty, land negotiations, railroad construction, educational obstacles, and a dwindling buffalo population. This situation necessitated the Crows to adopt farming, thought idyllic for transitioning them into American society. Faced with hunger and new struggles of subsistence, Crow leaders chose to adapt the skills necessary to sustain their tribe. Author Patty Molinaro recounts the shifting boundaries and historic pivotal period for the Crow nation.