Henry Sieben and the Montana Story

by Ciara Ryan

From Immigrant Teen to Montana Legend

Discover the extraordinary life of Henry Sieben, a German immigrant whose journey mirrors Montana's transformation from untamed frontier to thriving state.

• Ride along with Montana's first wagon train and witness the raw beginnings of a state in the making.
• Experience the gold rush, open-range cattle drives, and rise of family ranching through the eyes of a fearless pioneer.
• Meet a man who helped build Montana, not with politics, but with grit, vision, and hard-won success.
• Uncover a legacy still alive today, in ranches that remain cornerstones of the state's agricultural heritage.
• Enjoy vivid storytelling grounded in rare historical sources, brought to life by Fulbright Scholar and historian Ciara Ryan.
• Perfect for history enthusiasts, educators, and readers interested in the American West, immigration, and the personal stories that illuminate Montana's past.

Meticulously researched and deeply human, this biography captures the spirit of the West through the story of one remarkable life.

280 pages, Paperback

Published May 30, 2025

About the author

Originally from Limerick, Ireland, Ciara Ryan fell in love with Montana as a Fulbright Scholar in 2010 and has been researching Montana history and teaching the Irish, Spanish, and French languages here ever since. She earned her PhD from University College Cork and has published numerous articles on the Irish language and history in Montana. Ciara researched and prepared Henry Sieben’s biography while in the employ of the Foundation for Montana History. She lives in Helena with her husband, two children, and their goldendoodle.

Reviews

[Marj · Rating 5 out of 5]

My family has property in the area of one of Seiben’s properties. I was able to picture the actual locations and I found the entire biography fascinating. I will probably read this one again, another time.