Frank LaLiberty recognized for service, Historic Preservation Review Board

Frank LaLiberty’s time on the Historic Preservation Review Board began in January of 2021 and extended through September of 2023. Frank served in the role of Interested Public, an apt position to fill for Frank who loves and embraces history. A Montana boy, Frank graduated high school in Great Falls and received his Forestry degree from the University of Montana and a teaching degree in Agricultural Education from Montana State University, truly a conundrum in a state that pledges wholehearted allegiance to one university or the other.

Frank developed an interest in history from stories of Charlie Russell and Montana history from his old friend Larry Gannon. He worked with the Russell bicentennial committee and developed a keen interest in St. Peter’s Mission and Mary Fields through his work on restoration of the Mission church. Frank’s interest in Mary Fields extended to his outreach where he presented numerous times on Mary’s oversized contribution to Cascade County.

Frank brought a wide array of experience to the review board. Frank’s past endeavors include service station attendant, auto parts, smelter man, work in the post and pole business, logger, employment with the Forest Service, the Burlington Northern land department, reclamation research at MSU, field work for the Colstrip power plants Environmental Impact Statements, packer and hunting guide, ranch manager, customs agent, and 35 years of teaching, imparting not only his knowledge of the subject at hand, but also wisdom gained from experience.

Frank’s time on the review board proved far too short. Please join me in thanking Frank for his time on the board and his continued zeal for Montana history, both local and statewide.

The Montana State Preservation Review Board is a nine-member board appointed by the Governor. Their duties include the review and approval of National Register documentation, the review of appeals to National Register nominations, providing written opinions on the significance of properties, the review of completed State historic preservation plans, and providing general advice and professional recommendations to state agencies and the State Historic Preservation Office on the stewardship of heritage properties.