Explore Ferdinand

Families looking for an outing from Ferdinand can explore regional history at the Monastery of St. Gertrude and its Historical Museum near Cottonwood. This destination is outside Ferdinand; use 465 Keuterville Road, Cottonwood for the visitor address.

What makes the museum a useful family stop?

The exhibits connect the Camas Prairie with the Snake and Salmon River regions. They include the stories of the Benedictine sisters, the Nez Perce people, Polly Bemis and Buckskin Bill, plus a recreation of the original attic museum. For children, choosing one person or one local-history topic to follow through the exhibits can make the visit more manageable than trying to read everything.

Plan a museum visit separately from a retreat

The museum, monastery, inn and retreat center have different purposes. A museum outing does not require booking an overnight retreat. The Benedictine community welcomes people of all backgrounds; respect the working monastery and ask staff which spaces are open to visitors.

The museum’s published regular hours are Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with Sunday and holiday closures. Check the museum’s current admission and closure notices before leaving Ferdinand, or call 208-962-2050. Lectures and special family events require checking their announced dates separately.

Checked September 8, 2026: St. Gertrude visitor information and the Historical Museum’s official website.