The Montana Council of Defense was established during World War I to coordinate county war efforts. It also investigated cases of alleged disloyal activities. Records (1916-1921) include minutes, correspondence, subject files, testimony and exhibits for hearings and special investigations, membership lists, and correspondence of various county councils of defense.

These University of Montana System records (1915-1958) consist of general correspondence, subject files, budgetary materials, and scrapbooks from the Chancellor and the Executive Secretary offices.