The Historic Round Barn at Twin Bridges: A Montana Icon
Standing as a beacon of history and architectural brilliance, The Round Barn at Twin Bridges is not just a barn—it’s a testament to innovation, resilience, and the rich legacy of Montana’s Jefferson Valley. Built in 1882 by Noah Armstrong, this iconic structure holds stories of thoroughbred champions, visionary design, and a connection to one of America’s most cherished races, the Kentucky Derby.
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A Visionary’s Legacy
Noah Armstrong, a pioneer in mining, channeled his wealth into creating the Doncaster Stable and Stud Farm. At its heart was The Round Barn, a three-story marvel equipped with an indoor track, stalls for 24 thoroughbreds, and a windmill-driven water system. This barn was ahead of its time, a symbol of Armstrong’s ambition and ingenuity.
The Champions Born in the Round Barn
The Round Barn is most celebrated for its connection to horse racing royalty. Lord Raglan, one of Armstrong’s thoroughbreds, achieved a commendable third place in the 1883 Kentucky Derby. But it was Spokane, born within the barn’s walls, who etched his name in history by winning the 1889 Kentucky Derby. Spokane’s record-setting time for the 1½ mile Derby still stands today, as the race was shortened in 1896.
The Kentucky Derby Connection
The barn’s ties to the Kentucky Derby run deeper than Spokane’s victory. Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, established the Derby. Clark himself named the Jefferson River, flowing near Twin Bridges, further intertwining this region’s history with America’s cultural fabric.
A New Chapter with the Bayers Family
In 1933, the Bayers family acquired the Doncaster Ranch, bringing purebred Hereford cattle to the Jefferson Valley. Over the next five decades, the barn became a hub for cattle auctions, with buyers from 38 states and even countries like Hungary and Africa.
Preserving History, Celebrating Heritage
Today, The Round Barn at Twin Bridges remains a cherished landmark, a symbol of the region’s rich history and enduring spirit. Visitors are captivated by its unique architecture, historical significance, and the stories of champions born within its walls.
