BANNACK, MONTANA
Recently we visited Bannack, Montana with Patrick.
Click here for more on our trip to Montana.
Gold was found in this area in 1862.
This precipitated the first major gold rush in what later became Montana.
“Bannack was founded in 1862 when John White discovered gold on Grasshopper Creek. As news of the gold strike spread many prospectors and businessmen rushed to Bannack hoping to strike it rich. In 1864, Bannack was named as the first Territorial Capital of Montana. Remaining in Bannack for only a short time, the Capital moved on to Virginia City. In 1863 gold had been discovered near Virginia City and at that time many prospectors left Bannack in hopes of finding the mother lode in Virginia City. However, some people stayed in Bannack and explored the use of further mining techniques. From the late 1860's to the 1930's, Bannack continued as a mining town with a fluctuating population. By the 1950's gold workings had dwindled and most folks had moved on. At that point the State of Montana declared Bannack a State Park. Today, over sixty structures remain standing, most of which can be explored.” (Bannack State Park) The last residents left Bannack in the 1970s.
The courthouse was later used as a hotel.
Courthouse/hotel stairs
I was impressed with the decorative touches in many of these humble
homes. See the vinyl border on the bookshelf.
Methodist Church - the only church in town.
The jails. Notice the sod and grass on top of the building to the left.
This construction technique was often used for roofs in the town.
When it rained, the mud would drip down through the ceilings made of
wood slats.
This two seater outhouse has a lightbulb socket & "modern" toilet seat.
Masonic Lodge on the top floor - the Lodge is still active
School on the bottom floor - the school isn't
Joe & Patrick
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See previous post for location of Bannack in relation to where David, Carol &
Patrick live.
of the pages so you can see all the pictures).
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