Set against the rugged beauty of the Bighorn Mountains, The Brinton Museum occupies a site rich in history and Western heritage. The story of the Quarter Circle A Ranch, established in 1892, began with William Moncreiffe, a Scottish immigrant and early Sheridan County rancher, who acquired and developed the land. Under Moncreiffe’s stewardship, the property operated as a successful cattle ranch, embodying the spirit and tenacity of early Western pioneers. Moncreiffe and his family were influential in Wyoming’s ranching community, and their efforts laid the groundwork for the property’s lasting legacy.

In 1923, the ranch passed into the hands of Bradford Brinton, a Chicago industrialist and art collector. Brinton, captivated by the West’s sweeping landscapes and rich culture, envisioned the ranch as a personal retreat where he could indulge in his passion for Western art and culture. While Brinton was active in the family’s business operations in Chicago, he was devoted to preserving and celebrating the spirit of the American West. To that end, he began gathering a diverse collection of Western art, American Indian items, and fine decorative objects which he displayed in the ranch house.

Brinton’s collection grew to include works by some of the most iconic Western artists of his time including Charles M. Russell, Frederic Remington, and Edward Borein. His keen eye and dedication to collecting also extended to American Indian art. He amassed a notable array of Northern Plains Indian beadwork, Diné textiles, and also pottery, which he displayed alongside Western paintings and sculptures. These collections reflect both his appreciation of Western aesthetics and his desire to celebrate Indigenous craftsmanship.

Upon Bradford Brinton’s death in 1936, the Quarter Circle A Ranch and its extensive fine art collection were inherited by his sister, Helen Brinton. Recognizing the cultural significance of the ranch, its collections, and her brother’s legacy, Helen took steps to ensure it would be shared with the public by establishing the Bradford Brinton Memorial. Following her death in 1960, the ranch was officially opened as a museum in 1961. From its inception, the museum reflected both Bradford’s and Helen’s dedication to preserving the ranch and Bradford’s remarkable art collection, which embodied their deep passion for the American West.

In 2012, the institution incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, allowing for the acquisition of additional art and artifacts into what is now The Brinton Museum. This marked a significant evolution, enabling the museum to expand its collection and programming while continuing to honor the legacy of the ranch and its founders.

The museum took a major step forward in 2015 with the opening of the Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Building, named after the longtime supporter and philanthropist. Designed by the architectural firm of Malone Belton Abel, the environmentally friendly building was constructed to harmonize with the natural landscape, blending seamlessly with the sweeping vistas of the Bighorn Mountains. The 24,000 sq. ft. facility includes gallery exhibition space, state-of-the-art storage, and allows the institution to house and offer exhibitions of its extensive collection year-round.

The Quarter Circle A Ranch itself retains a distinct sense of place and history. The original ranch house, dating back to the late 19th century, remains a highlight for visitors, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of a gentleman’s ranch and art collector. Visitors to the historic ranch house can view many of Bradford Brinton’s personal belongings, along with his fine furnishings and decorative items, which evoke the character of a Western estate. The ranch grounds encompass various barns and outbuildings, preserving the look and feel of a working ranch and immersing visitors in the Western experience.

The property’s sweeping fields and traditional architecture serve as a tribute to its early days under both the ownership of the Moncreiffe family and Bradford and Helen Brinton. Today, The Brinton Museum’s mission to celebrate and preserve the art, history, and stories of the American West stands as a testament to the dedication of those who have contributed to its legacy. By maintaining the character of the ranch and expanding its collection, The Brinton Museum encourages guests to explore and appreciate the culture and artistry that continue to define the forever American West.