Legendary Broadcaster and Activist Honored in Great Falls

Across the history of the state of Montana, there have been many women who have helped and sometimes spearheaded what we see today.  Women who broke barriers across so many different walks of life, careers and in the passions they held.

Those names are etched across politics, such as Jeannette Rankin.  Or greatness in the rodeo arena with the Greenough Sisters.  Movie stars such as Myrna Loy and incredible Native American leaders in Elouise Pepion Cobell, leading the largest class action lawsuit (and winning) against the United States Government.

Pioneers are plenty in Great Falls also; Alma Smith Jacobs, championing the first modern day library in the city, or Stagecoach Mary, the first Black woman to be employed as a star route postwoman in the United States.

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Legendary Broadcaster and Activist Honored in Great Falls

As a broadcaster of nearly 40 years, I am probably a little biased when it comes to honoring one of the legendary women who have shaped what we hear and view.

Norma Ashby.

It is a name that is synonymous in Great Falls with so many great things.  Whether you grew up watching her as a co-host for Today in Montana, on the Montana Children's Network Telethon or one the many docuseries she produced.  Ms. Ashby was also inducted into the Montana Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2010, becoming "the first living woman and second woman ever to be so honored."

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She is also known for her civic activism in Great Falls, which helped in creating the CM Russell Art Auction, which still runs today.  Ms. Ashby also took the lead when it was discovered that Montana didn't have a state fish and initiated a drive to choose one, the cutthroat trout.

Now, in honor of her upcoming 90th birthday, there is a new display to honor this incredible woman, once named the Most Influential Woman in Great Falls.

Stop Downtown in Great Falls to View the All-New Display of Ms. Ashby's Career

The new display is downtown in Great Falls at the old Beckman's Building at 309 Central Avenue.  The owner of the building, Shari Jenkins Smith, has gathered many of the amazing items that Norma featured throughout her distinguished career.  Smith said she wanted to "feature the story of this wonderful Montanan, and to celebrate her years of serving our state."

Be sure to make a stop soon to view this new display of amazing memorabilia.  It may stir a memory or two for you and even include a small history lesson; just close your eyes and listen for Norma's voice recounting rattlesnakes on live television being born or perhaps interviewing Clint Eastwood.  You can see some of this display in our gallery below. 👇