Founded in 1974 in Missoula, Montana, Historical Research Associates (HRA) is one of the oldest history and archaeology consulting firms in the United States. The company began with a small team of historians addressing legal and administrative challenges facing federal, state, and private sectors. Over the years, HRA has expanded its expertise in cultural resources management, becoming a leader in providing integrated teams of historians and archaeologists to facilitate environmental permitting in the Western United States.
HRA's service offerings include a wide range of historical and archaeological consulting services such as Archaeology, Historic Preservation, Aerial Imagery and Remote Sensing Services (AIRSS), and Cultural Resources Management (CRM). The firm also specializes in litigation support, offering expert witness services in areas like Native American, environmental, and water law, which reflect its commitment to historical integrity and legal compliance.
In addition, HRA emphasizes the importance of collaborative and equitable practices in cultural resources management, aiming to make historical knowledge accessible to clients and communities alike. The company's mission is to provide effective solutions that honor the past while addressing contemporary issues. HRA continues to evolve, building on decades of experience and expertise to serve a variety of clients across multiple sectors. As the firm approaches its 50th anniversary, it remains dedicated to making history relevant in today's world through principled practices and innovative approaches.