Missoula in Missoula County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)

John M. Keith House

University Area Historic District

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, August 20, 2019

1. John M. Keith House Marker

Inscription. The prestigious architectural firm of Link and Haire designed this handsome residence, which reflects the Midwestern taste of its first owner, John M. Keith. Son of a farmer from New Brunswick, Canada, Keith came to Missoula in 1881. Taking a job as a cashier at the Missoula National Bank in 1888, he worked his way up to vice president. Keith had completed a third term as mayor of Missoula and been made president of the Missoula Trust and Savings Banks when his grand home was completed circa 1910. The Prairie School style, promoted by architect Frank Lloyd Wright of Chicago, was intended to imitate the “rolling Midwestern prairie terrain.” A low- pitched hipped roof and widely overhanging eaves augment the horizontal emphasis characteristic of the style, which is further enhanced by terra cotta tiles capping hip-roofed chimneys. A granite foundation and detailing add contrast to the walls of high-fired brown-rust brick. Much of the first-floor interior retains its original opulence, strongly influenced by the Craftsman style of the period, including exquisite woodwork, elegant paneling, pocket sliding doors, and a copper-clad

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entry hall fireplace. This distinctive home served as a private residence until the 1930s when it was purchased by the Sigma Chi fraternity.

Erected by Montana National Register Sign Program.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Fraternal or Sororal Organizations • Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Montana National Register Sign Program series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1881.

Location. 46° 51.641′ N, 113° 59.725′ W. Marker is in Missoula, Montana, in Missoula County. It is at the intersection of Gerald Avenue and Daly Avenue, on the left when traveling south on Gerald Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1110 Gerald Avenue, Missoula MT 59801, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Western Montana

and in Glacier Country.

It is also in the American Mountain West

and in the Lewis & Clark Corridor.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Rocky Mountains,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically,

John M. Keith House and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, August 20, 2019

2. John M. Keith House and Marker

The marker is to the left side of the portico half-hidden by a bush.

it finds itself in what was once Rupert’s Land

and also the Louisiana Purchase.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: 140 University Avenue (within shouting distance of this marker); Charles C. Brothers Residence (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Greenhood Residence (about 400 feet away); John R. Toole House (about 400 feet away); 315 Daly (about 400 feet away); Frank A. Roberts Home (approx. 0.2 miles away); 415 Connell Avenue (approx. 0.2 miles away); 425 Connell (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Missoula.

Credits. This page was last revised on December 4, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 8, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 559 times since then and 45 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 8, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.