Honoring Our History & Celebrating Our Culture
Who is St. Benedict Joseph Labre?
St. Benedict Joseph Labre lived a life defined by love of God and love of neighbor, the two greatest Commandments – values that guide St. Labre Indian School today.
From an early age, St. Benedict Joseph Labre felt drawn to a life dedicated to God. Turned away by several religious orders, he chose a life of pilgrimage – traveling across Europe, serving the poor and marginalized and embracing poverty as a way to grow closer to God.
After his death in 1783, many miracles were attributed to his intercession. He was canonized as a saint in 1881 and is remembered for his deep humility, constant prayer and complete trust in God. St. Labre Indian School carries on his spirit of service, faith and compassion for those in need.
How St. Labre Began
A look at how our school and community were founded
The founding of St. Labre Indian School in 1884 was one of the first efforts to care for Native Americans displaced by homesteading in Southeastern Montana. George Yoakam, a former soldier and Catholic convert stationed near Miles City, witnessed the hardships faced by the Northern Cheyenne People, who were living along the Tongue River Valley without homes or land set aside as a reservation. He contacted Bishop John Brondel of Montana Territory to share what he had seen. In response, Bishop Brondel purchased land and a three-room log cabin, and on April 2, 1884, St. Labre Indian School was established.
Responding to Bishop Brondel's request, three Ursuline nuns from Toledo, Ohio, established St. Labre to serve the Northern Cheyenne. The modest cabin became the center of daily life – serving as a residence, school and church.
The early years were difficult. With limited funding, the school often struggled to remain open and enrollment dropped to just 64 students in 1954. Thanks to the generosity of supporters who believed in its mission, St. Labre endured and gradually began to grow.
In 1965, St. Labre expanded its mission to the Crow Indian Reservation, bringing two additional campuses into the fold – Pretty Eagle Catholic School in St. Xavier and St. Charles Mission School in Pryor – continuing the school’s commitment to serving Native American communities.
Acknowledge. Heal. Empower Change.
At St. Labre, we believe it’s important to confront the past with honesty. By recognizing difficult chapters in history, we promote healing and help create a stronger future for the communities we serve.
The Cheyenne Indian Museum, located on our St. Labre Ashland Campus, is currently closed for renovations. Watch for information regarding our exciting re-opening planned for Fall 2027.
As an award-winning institution recognized for excellence in cultural preservation, the Cheyenne Indian Museum is dedicated to honoring the living history of the Northern Cheyenne and Crow tribes. Immerse yourself in the intricate art of traditional beading and quill work, examine the stone tools, arrowheads and ceremonial headdresses and then take a piece of history home with you from our gift shop.
The Cheyenne Indian Museum remains a cornerstone of our community. We look forward to welcoming you back to explore these new exhibits and maybe find a unique keepsake in our gift shop. Check back soon for more updates on our journey toward Fall 2027!
Contact Information:
Location
*1/4 mile north of US Highway 212
*62 miles east of the Little Bighorn Battlefield
St. Labre Indian School
112 St. Labre Campus Dr
Ashland, MT 59003