The City of Great Falls’ website has a page titled “Fun Facts.” On that page, there’s a list of famous people who have lived in Great Falls. Among others on the list is the name of William Wesley Van Orsdel, fondly known as Brother Van. In tribute to this man who influenced the building of state-wide, much-needed institutions, the Great Falls’ home where Brother Van lived has become a museum, and you are invited to see it.
During guided tours of the Brother Van House Museum, docents tell Brother Van’s life story while also make public this northside restored home where he lived. Docents guiding tours will lead you through the home that is decorated in a Victorian motif. The Brother Van stories—which are the emphasis of the tour—will expand on Brother Van’s life’s adventures as he crisscrossed the state meeting people, holding services, and attending meetings. Some of these stories are believed to be true and others appear to be inflated but still a “kick” to share. Some visitors are interested in the furniture and contents while others find the structure of this lower northside home that is on the National Register of Historic Places their primary interest. Questions, such as when it was built, how it’s being restored, what is the origin of the furnishings, and who had lived there, are answered during the tour.
The Brother Van House Museum, located at 113 Sixth Street North, will be open Tuesday-Friday, July 8-August 1, from 1-4 p.m. Admission is free. Parking is available in the Methodist Church parking lot.
Author: Staff
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