The Celtic Cowboys

In 1890, Welsh immigrant Robert Vaughn, the first European settler in the county, who had become wealthy in the ranching business in the Sun River Valley outside of Great Falls, perceived a need in the downtown area for the “most advanced livery stable in the West.” This was the genesis of the Arvon Block, a playful take on his name .. Robert Vaughn… R. Vaughn… Arvon.

The building housed a livery stable, freight transfer office, teamster boarding house and green-grocer. Vaughn, who by that time had received the nickname “The Celtic Cowboy” by the press, would go on to become one of Great Falls’ earliest philanthropists and most prominent citizens.

Fast-forward 126 years and we proudly bring you The Celtic Cowboy Pub and Restaurant and the Hotel Arvon, evoking the lively times of the past in what is now one of the very few remaining buildings from the early days of Great Falls. We hope to see you here! Contact us to book a show.