What's On Exhibit at MONI
Permanent Exhibits
From the Schitsuumsh to mining to steamboats, learn all about North Idaho's rich history.
Future Exhibits
As part of our 5,000 square foot underground expansion, we are designing all new, state-of-the-art exhibits. Stay tuned as the project develops.
"The local museum is an essential part of the community. It is a place where people can come together to learn about their shared history, to discover their roots, and to be inspired by the achievements of their forebears. By preserving the artifacts and stories of the past, museums provide a bridge between the present and the past, helping us to understand who we are and where we come from." - Sharon Waxman
Permanent Exhibits
Missoula Floods looks at the geology and geography of North Idaho.
Schitsu’umsh, “The People Who Were Discovered Here” gives a glimpse into the life of the Coeur d’Alene Indians through beadwork, tools, maps, stories and life lessons.
Explorers and Fur Traders looks at trade and explorers prior to white settlement. Created by the Northwest Fur Trade Historians.
The Scandinavians Settled Here looks at the Nordic influences in the region from the early homesteading days.
Steamboats: The original signal bells and steering wheel from the steamboat “Flyer” are exhibited along with photos and artifacts from steamboats which cruised Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Mining and Logging: The two biggest industries in North Idaho have made a huge impact on North Idaho over the years. As safety regulations and industry standards changed over the years, so too did technology.
Forestry and the Big Burn: features stories and graphics about the 1910 fire that destroyed millions of acres in Idaho and Montana.
Upcoming Exhibits
American Experience: War Comes Home
(September 5 - November 21, 2026)
Uncover historic and contemporary letters from service members and their families to reveal the deeply personal experiences of returning from deployment. Through stories of grief, joy, doubt, and love, the exhibition offers an intimate look at the challenges and triumphs of adjusting to civilian life and the lasting impact of war at home.
Mining in Focus
(January 9 - March 13, 2027)
This exhibit brings the Coeur d'Alene Mining District to life through remarkable photographs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Featuring the work of renowned photographers Thomas Barnard, Nellie Stockbridge, and others, the exhibit captures the people, places, and industries that shaped one of the nation's richest silver mining regions. From bustling towns and dramatic landscapes to hardworking miners and tragic accidents, these images offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of North Idaho's mining heritage.
Phase 2 Expansion Exhibits
A growing community means a growing museum, and we want to create a space that caters to varied learning styles. With Phase 2 comes an expanded exhibit gallery and professionally designed exhibits.
The new exhibits will be fully immersive and interactive explorations of the waterways of North Idaho and how the system of lakes, rivers, and aquifer determines our livelihoods - past, present and future.
We are still raising funds to complete the work needed for our Phase 2 expansion. If you are interested in helping us move history forward, we still have several naming opportunities available. Stay tuned as more information is released as we get further in the project.
