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Absarokee, Montana

Absarokee is a census-designated place (CDP) in Stillwater County, Montana, United States, approximately 14 mi south of Columbus on Highway 78. It is named after the Crow Indians who formerly inhabited the land. The population was 1,000 at the 2020 census. The Stillwater Mine, operated by the Stillwater Mining Company, is located near Absarokee.

Name
The name Absarokee is derived from Apsáalookěi, the name given to the Crow Indian Tribe by the related Hidatsa people with Apsáa meaning "large-beaked bird" and lookěi meaning "children". Apsáalookěi thus literally means "children of the large-beaked bird". (The name "Crow" comes from the French gens du corbeaux or "people of the crows" as Apsáalookěi was translated by French fur traders in 1743.) The name was chosen by Absarokee-founder Sever T. Simonson who believed it meant "our people". It is widely believed that the difference in spelling of Absarokee from the nearby Absaroka Range is a result of the poor penmanship of an early settler whose final "a" in the name was mistaken for "ee". Though pronounced "Ub-ZOR-kee" in modern parlance, Eli Ricker in one of his "Indian Interviews" from 1903-1919 ends a record of an interview with Frank S. Shively, Assistant Clerk at Crow Agency, with "Absarokee Ab-sar'-o-kee".

History
Absarokee was founded just north of the Second Crow Agency (sometimes referred to as the Absaroka Agency) in 1892. The Crow Agency was the headquarters of the Crow Tribe's reservation, which was established by the Treaty of Fort Laramie (1868). That original reservation extended to more than 35 million acres with the first Crow Agency located at Fort Parker near modern Livingston, Montana in 1869.

As miners encroached, the reservation was reduced to 8 million acres in 1875 with a location south of modern Absarokee established as Second Crow Agency (1875-1884). It was during this time that the Crow were forced to give up nomadic free lifestyles to one totally under the control of the US government. They were not allowed to leave the reservation, bison was replaced with US issued beef rations, and the tribe was hit by several measles and scarlet fever epidemics. Finally, by 1884 further miner encroachment led to the creation of the third and current Crow Agency 60 miles SE of Billings on the Little Bighorn River. Most of the Absaroka Agency Fort was destroyed in a fire in 1891.

With the Homestead Acts of the 1860s and the westward expansion of the railroad, more settlers came to Montana. Not until October 15, 1892, did the federal government through a Benjamin Harrison proclamation open the land around Absarokee for settlement. It was part of a 1.8 million-acre land cession agreed to by Crow tribal leaders two years earlier after bowing to political pressure. Eleven days earlier on October 4, Sever Simonson and his family had arrived and established squatter's rights at the confluence of the Stillwater and East Rosebud Rivers.

Simonson and his nephew, Oliver H. Hovda, built a log hotel and together established a trading post (later the Absarokee Cooperative Trading Co.). This was followed by a saloon, livery stable, and blacksmith shop. A post office was established December 16, 1892 in Simonson's home, where he served as Absarokee's postmaster. The two-story home of Hovda, known as the Big Yellow House, built in 1904 by an area rancher, Jacob Wagner, is located on Absarokee's main street (Woodard Ave.) and is on the National Register of Historic Places list.

Absarokee was affected by the 2022 Montana floods when the Stillwater River flooded.

Geography
Absarokee is located in a valley of the Beartooth Mountains foothills. According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 2.0 sqmi, all land. It is situated in the Rosebud River watershed, approximately three miles north of the confluence of the East Rosebud River, West Rosebud River, and Butcher Creek, and just south of the confluence of the created Rosebud River and the Stillwater River.

Climate
The climatic type is dominated by the winter season, a long, bitterly cold period with short, clear days, relatively little precipitation mostly in the form of snow, and low humidity.

Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 1,234 people, 499 households, and 343 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 608.1 PD/sqmi. There were 550 housing units at an average density of 271.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.24% White, 0.08% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 1.54% from other races, and 0.89% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.51% of the population.

There were 499 households, out of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.3% were married couples living together, 5.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.1% were non-families. 26.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 3.01.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 27.6% under the age of 18, 4.9% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 22.9% from 45 to 64, and 17.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females there were 93.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $43,676, and the median income for a family was $52,708. Males had a median income of $47,404 versus $19,545 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $20,677. About 4.2% of families and 7.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.0% of those under age 18 and 7.0% of those age 65 or over.

The nearby Stillwater Mine has a great effect on the population of the area. Although the population remains relatively constant with a slight increase, mining families are generally more transient than the local farming community so a slight change around town and especially at the schools is ever present.

Education
Absarokee has two school locations. The elementary school is located on the south side of town in the former high school. Two older buildings on the campus are no longer used for educational purposes. The new high school (1989) is shared by both the junior high school and high school students.

Absarokee High School is a class C school (less than 108 students) which helps determine athletic competitions. The most notable difference in class C schools is that they play eight-man football, which is basically eleven-man football with no tackles and one split-end instead of two wide receivers.

Absarokee's sport teams are called the Huskies and the school colors are orange and black.

Media
The Stillwater County News is a newspaper serving the area. It is printed weekly and also available online.

The town receives radio and television from the wider Billings area.

title: Absarokee, Montana


text:
Columbus, Montana

Columbus is a town in and the county seat of Stillwater County, Montana, United States. The population was 1,857 at the 2020 census.

History
The community originated as a stagecoach station on the Yellowstone River.

The original name was Sheep Dip, then changed to Stillwater, but because of a Stillwater, Minnesota on the Northern Pacific Railroad, the mail presented a problem. The name was ultimately changed to Columbus, Montana in 1893.

Geography and climate
Columbus is located at 45.64°N, -109.25°W (45.64, -109.25).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.35 sqmi, of which 1.32 sqmi is land and 0.03 sqmi is water.

Columbus is located between the Yellowstone River, the old Yellowstone Trail, Highway 10, and now Interstate 90.

The confluence of the Yellowstone River and Stillwater River is at Columbus.

According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Columbus has a warm-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,893 people, 767 households, and 517 families residing in the town. The population density was 1434.1 PD/sqmi. There were 843 housing units at an average density of 638.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.5% White, 0.1% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.7% of the population.

There were 767 households, of which 33.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.6% were non-families. 28.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the town was 40.4 years. 26% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.8% were from 25 to 44; 27.4% were from 45 to 64; and 16.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.5% male and 51.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,748 people, 709 households, and 455 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,449.6 PD/sqmi. There were 762 housing units at an average density of 631.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.62% White, 0.23% African American, 1.26% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.11% from other races, and 1.66% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.60% of the population.

There were 709 households, out of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.0% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.7% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.7% under the age of 18, 5.9% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 22.5% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females there were 97.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.5 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $33,750, and the median income for a family was $46,103. Males had a median income of $37,750 versus $20,417 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,689. About 9.8% of families and 13.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.6% of those under age 18 and 15.7% of those age 65 or over.

Government
Columbus has a mayor and city council. The mayor in 2023 is Webb Mandeville. There are 3 wards represented for the city council.

Arts and Culture
The Museum of the Beartooths is a history museum located in Columbus. They feature artifacts and replicas of life in the Stillwater area.

Having both the Yellowstone River and the Stillwater River just outside of town, fishing is a popular activity.

Stillwater County Library is a public library which serves the area.

Infrastructure
Woltermann Memorial Airport is a public use airport located southeast of town.

The 100 kW solar array at the Stillwater Smelter was the first “behind-the-meter” industrial scale solar installation project in Montana.

Education
Columbus Public Schools educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Columbus High School's team name is the Cougars.

Media
The Stillwater County News is a newspaper serving the area. It is printed weekly and also available online.

The radio station KMTJ is licensed in Columbus. The town receives stations from the wider Billings area.

Notable people

 * Annie Duke, professional poker player, lived here with her husband.
 * Dwan Edwards, professional football player, attended high school here.
 * William Thomas Hamilton, known as Wildcat Bill, a 19th-century frontiersman, scout, trapper, trader and author.
 * Jack Vaughn, Assistant Secretary of State, Ambassador to Panama and Colombia, and Director of the Peace Corps from 1966 to 1969, was born in Columbus.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Columbus, Montana


text:
Park City, Montana

Park City is a census-designated place (CDP) in Stillwater County, Montana, United States. The population was 870 at the 2000 census.

Located 20 miles from the state's largest city, Billings, Park City has a small town atmosphere. It is not incorporated, therefore does not have a mayor or any other "city" legislative positions. The town serves as a bedroom community for the neighboring cities of Laurel and Billings. Most inhabitants are employed in either of those two towns. It is mainly a farming community, growing mostly sugar beets and corn.

The town has a library, school, fire department, two gas stations/convenience stores, three churches of different denominations as well as two bars. Most of the historical buildings are made of sandstone, due to the large sandstone cliffs to the north of the town.

A post office was opened under the name Young’s Point in 1878. In 1882 a group of settler's arrived and named the area Park City.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, all land.

The Yellowstone River is south of town.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Park City has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 870 people, 330 households, and 256 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 838.9 PD/sqmi. There were 343 housing units at an average density of 330.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.78% White, 0.23% African American, 0.57% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 1.03% from other races, and 1.26% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.15% of the population.

There were 330 households, out of which 38.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.3% were married couples living together, 7.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.4% were non-families. 20.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 27.4% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 27.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $37,266, and the median income for a family was $42,917. Males had a median income of $31,806 versus $16,490 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $16,912. About 5.1% of families and 8.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.3% of those under age 18 and 7.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The largest building in the city is Park City Schools. It educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. In the 2021-2022 school year, the school had 207 students from kindergarten to 8th grade and the high school had 102 students.

Park City High School's team name is the Panthers with colors of red and black.

Media
Two radio stations are licensed in Park City. KBIL primarily broadcasts contemporary worship music. KBXI airs a variety hits music format.

Infrastructure
Interstate 90 passes on the north of town from east to west.

The nearest airport is Billings Logan International Airport. Healthcare is available in Billings, Columbus, or Laurel.

title: Park City, Montana


text:
Reed Point, Montana

Reed Point is a census-designated place (CDP) in Stillwater County, Montana, United States. The population was 247 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Reed Point is located at 45.70722°N, -109.54444°W (45.707165, -109.544546).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 0.5 sqmi, all land.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Reed Point has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 185 people, 79 households, and 50 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 339.6 PD/sqmi. There were 92 housing units at an average density of 168.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 94.05% White, 1.62% Native American, and 4.32% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.78% of the population.

There were 79 households, out of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.9% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.7% were non-families. 35.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 27.0% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 30.3% from 25 to 44, 23.2% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 107.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $26,500, and the median income for a family was $33,000. Males had a median income of $21,250 versus $18,000 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $16,389. About 9.1% of families and 12.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.7% of those under the age of eighteen and 42.9% of those 65 or over.

Education
Reed Point Schools educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Reed Point High School's team name is the Renegades.

History
Reed Point was named after Harry Reed who, with his wife, Alice McCleary Reed, ran a stage station for several years.

About 1876, attracted by the reports of the Black Hills stampede, the Reeds went overland with a covered wagon. After a short sojourn around Spearfish, South Dakota, they joined an expedition going to the Big Horn and Yellowstone valley in the summer of 1877. The caravan was attacked by Native Americans while it was still in the Black Hills country, and several of its members were killed.

Their party was later joined by another, led by Dr. W.A. Allen. Their travels across the plains were marked by other encounters with Native Americans and by many hardships. The party reached the Yellowstone River about the time Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce tribe made their raid through this section and fought the Battle of Canyon Creek.

While Harry Reed worked with a timber crew, Alice Reed worked at several ranches and stage stations along the Yellowstone River. About 1878, the Reed's went to Coulson, Montana, where Harry Reed was employed in carrying mail to Fort Custer. He narrowly escaped death by drowning in a freshet of Pryor Creek, but his health was so impaired that he died several months later. The young and widowed Alice Reed made a living by washing clothes until, in April, 1881, she remarried to John Schock, a Civil War veteran who was in charge of the McAdow Ferry at Coulson.

In 1901, the post office was established as Reed, but the name was changed to Reed Point in 1906. Bob Guthrie plotted the townsite in 1911 and a new bridge spanned the Yellowstone River the same year.

title: Reed Point, Montana


text:
Big Timber, Montana

Big Timber is a city in, and the county seat of, Sweet Grass County, Montana, United States. The population was 1,650 at the 2020 census.

Big Timber takes its name from Big Timber Creek, which was named by William Clark because of the large cottonwood trees. The post office was established in 1880, closed, then reopened in 1882 with Ella Burns as postmaster. As a stop on the Northern Pacific Railroad, Big Timber became a major wool-shipping depot. It became the county seat in 1895. A fire in 1908 destroyed half the commercial buildings and a third of the residential homes.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.95 sqmi, of which 0.92 sqmi is land and 0.03 sqmi is water.

Climate
Big Timber has a cool semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk) bordering on a humid continental climate (Dfb). Although winters can be frigid, frequent chinook winds will raise temperatures above 50 F on an average twenty days between December and February, and have raised them to or above 68 F on ten occasions during these months since 1894. The chinooks mean Big Timber's 31.3 days per year failing to top freezing is among the fewest in Montana, with the average window for such maxima being from November 11 to March 18. In the absence of chinooks, temperatures fall to 0 F on seventeen mornings during an average winter, although such temperatures were reached just once in 1999/2000 but as many as thirty-four times during the very cold winters of 1935/1936 and 1978/1979. The average window for zero temperatures is from December 4 to February 25. The coldest temperature in Big Timber has been −47 F during the notorious 1936 cold wave on February 15, whilst February 1936 was also the coldest month on record at 5.0 F, shading January 1916 which averaged 5.5 F.

Spring is typically windy with temperatures nearly so variable as in winter: the last frost typically arrives on May 19, but temperatures have reached 80 F as early as March 22 of 1928 and have fallen to zero Fahrenheit as late as April 13, 1928 and April 12, 1997. Late in spring thunderstorms increase in frequency and during late spring and early summer these provide most of Big Timber's annual precipitation. The wettest calendar year since 1894 has been 1957 with 25.71 in and the driest 1939 with 9.38 in, whilst the wettest single month has been May 1981 with 7.69 in

During the summer, days can be very hot, with maxima of 90 F on 28.5 afternoons and over 100 F on 1.1, although mornings very rarely stay above 65 F. The record hottest temperature is 110 F on July 21, 1931 and the hottest morning 73 F on July 31 of 1936.

The fall season is usually short and variable, with snow occasionally falling in September, but at other times hot weather can extend into October or even November.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,641 people, 751 households, and 429 families residing in the city. The population density was 1783.7 PD/sqmi. There were 933 housing units at an average density of 1014.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.9% White, 0.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 2.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.8% of the population.

There were 751 households, of which 28.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.9% were non-families. 38.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the city was 45.5 years. 23.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.8% were from 25 to 44; 25.2% were from 45 to 64; and 25.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.5% male and 51.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,650 people, 711 households, and 430 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,752.6 PD/sqmi. There were 812 housing units at an average density of 862.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.61% White, 0.79% Native American, 0.30% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 0.73% from other races, and 1.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.70% of the population.

There were 711 households, out of which 27.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.2% were married couples living together, 5.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.5% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.7% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 23.2% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females there were 96.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,595, and the median income for a family was $38,869. Males had a median income of $29,000 versus $17,596 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,569. About 9.3% of families and 10.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.9% of those under age 18 and 7.6% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
The Crazy Mountain Museum has a focus on the area history. In addition to the indoor displays there are outdoor replicas, including a homestead cabin from Swedish settlers to the area, and a large garden based on plant descriptions from the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Carnegie Public Library serves the Big Timber area.

Infrastructure
Insterstate 90 passes to the south of Big Timber while U.S. Route 191 runs directly through town.

Big Timber Airport is a public use airport located 3 miles southwest of town.

Intercity bus service to the city is provided by Jefferson Lines.

Education
Sweet Grass County High School provides public high school education in Big Timber. They are known as the Sheepherders.

Media
The local newspaper is the Big Timber Pioneer. It is published weekly.

A satellite of Yellowstone Public Radio, KYPB, is licensed in Big Timber.

Notable people

 * Orvin B. Fjare, United States Congressman from Montana
 * Judy Martz, 22nd Governor of Montana
 * Bobby Hauck, head football coach of the University of Montana football team
 * Michael Keaton, Academy Award-nominated actor
 * Speed Langworthy, lyricist, advertising account executive, newspaper magnate, and international relations.

title: Big Timber, Montana


text:
Greycliff, Montana

Greycliff is a census-designated place (CDP) in Sweet Grass County, Montana, United States. The population was 56 at the 2000 census.

Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park is located at the east edge of town. Visitors can view the local black-tailed prairie dog community and their mayor, Al Bino, and learn through interactive displays.

The town was established in 1883 by the Northern Pacific Railroad.

Population
The 2010 census said there was a population of 58. There were 30 males and 28 females. There were 4 youngsters under the age of 18 years. 54 were over 18. There were 6 people aged 20–24. There were 8 people aged 25–34. There were 7 people aged 35–49. There were 20 people aged 50–64. There were 12 people aged 65 and over.

Geography
Greycliff is located at 45.75972°N, -109.77944°W (45.759715, -109.779376).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 0.3 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The Köppen Climate System classifies the weather as humid continental, abbreviated as Dfb.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 56 people, 21 households, and 12 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 168.9 PD/sqmi. There were 28 housing units at an average density of 84.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.21% White and 1.79% Asian. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.79% of the population.

There were 21 households, out of which 52.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.6% were married couples living together, 4.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.1% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 3.46.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 39.3% under the age of 18, 1.8% from 18 to 24, 33.9% from 25 to 44, 16.1% from 45 to 64, and 8.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $38,750, and the median income for a family was $36,250. Males had a median income of $33,542 versus $11,875 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,023. There were 10.0% of families and 18.8% of the population living below the poverty line, including 16.0% of under eighteens and 33.3% of those over 64.

title: Greycliff, Montana


text:
Choteau, Montana

Choteau is a city in and the county seat of Teton County, Montana, United States. The population was 1,721 at the 2020 census.

Choteau is named for French fur merchant, trader and explorer Pierre Chouteau, Jr., who is also the namesake of Chouteau County, Montana. Fort Pierre, South Dakota, and Pierre, South Dakota, are also named after Chouteau. Originally a trading post established by A. B. Hamilton in 1873, the town was platted in 1883.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 1.83 sqmi, all land.

The Teton River runs nearby, although for some distance upstream of Choteau it is dry during much of the year.

Being located along the Rocky Mountain Front, Choteau is near several mountains. Some of them are Mount Frazier, Old Baldy, and Rocky Mountain. The Ear Mountain Wildlife Management Area seeks to protect local wildlife, especially mule deer and bighorn sheep.

About 15 mi west is the Teton Pass Ski Area. The area has downhill skiing, backcountry skiing, and snowmobile trails.

Just to the south is Freezout Lake, a bird watcher's paradise. Hundreds of thousands of birds gather at the lake during peak migration. 230 species have been documented at the lake.

Climate
Choteau experiences a semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk) with cold, dry winters and warm, more humid summers.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,684 people, 791 households, and 441 families residing in the city. The population density was 920.2 PD/sqmi. There were 888 housing units at an average density of 485.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.0% White, 2.1% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.3% from other races, and 2.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7% of the population.

There were 791 households, of which 21.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.8% were married couples living together, 6.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 44.2% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.04 and the average family size was 2.75.

The median age in the city was 49.1 years. 19.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.8% were from 25 to 44; 29.8% were from 45 to 64; and 25.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.4% male and 53.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,781 people, 807 households, and 464 families residing in the city. The population density was 994.3 people per square mile (/km2). There were 897 housing units at an average density of 500.8 per square mile (/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 93.94% White, 0.06% African American, 2.92% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.22% from other races, and 2.75% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.18% of the population.

There were 807 households, out of which 24.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.8% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.4% were non-families. 39.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.82.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.7% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 21.4% from 25 to 44, 25.8% from 45 to 64, and 25.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females there ware 86.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,708, and the median income for a family was $35,655. Males had a median income of $22,429 versus $17,098 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,999. About 12.7% of families and 17.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 30.2% of those under the age of 18 and 12.5% of those 65 and older.

Arts and Culture
Choteau is part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail. The town is near one of the world's most important paleontology sites, Egg Mountain. The Old Trail Museum in Choteau is home to the Montana state fossil, the Maiasaura. The 3-D display can be viewed during the summer operating season. Also showcased is the Egg Mountain find along with a commentary on its significance in paleontology. Besides dinosaurs the museum has artifacts and information about the Blackfeet and Métis histories, local geology, and local history.

Bynum, 13 mi north, is home to The Montana Dinosaur Center. They have a skeletal model of what is believed to be the world's longest dinosaur, a diplodocus.

Choteau/Teton Public Library serves the area.

Government
Choteau has a mayor-council system of government. In 2023 the mayor was Chris Hindoien. Choteau is split into two wards, each with two councilmembers.

In the news
Choteau made national news in the U.S. because it is the town nearest to a 2700 acre ranch that David Letterman purchased in 1999 as a vacation home. Letterman has talked about the ranch on his late-night show and showed photos of a black bear invading the place in September 2003.

On his first show after the attacks of September 11, 2001, Letterman gave an impassioned monologue about New York City in the aftermath. He concluded his seven-minute speech by mentioning Choteau's rally to raise money for victims of the attacks, despite the long drought there, as an example of the spirit of the United States.

On March 19, 2009, Letterman married his girlfriend of 23 years at the Teton County Courthouse in Choteau.

In 2008, school authorities in Choteau made national news headlines by canceling a speaking engagement by Nobel laureate climate researcher Steve Running, who was scheduled to speak to local high school students.

Education
Choteau Public Schools serves all grades of children.

In 2022, grades K-8 had 240 students with 19.5 full-time equivalency teachers. The high school had 107 students with 10 teachers.

Media
The Choteau Acantha is a newspaper printed weekly or accessed online.

The radio stations KETI-LP and KUDI are licensed in Choteau. Both are Christian stations.

Infrastructure
U.S. Route 89 and 287 converge in town.

Choteau Airport is a public use airport one mile (2 km) northeast of town. The nearest commercial airport is Great Falls International Airport, 60 mi away.

Benefis Teton Medical Center provides local medical care.

Notable people

 * John Edward Erickson, Governor of Montana, was born in Stoughton.
 * J. Frank Glendon, actor
 * A. B. Guthrie Jr., American novelist
 * David Letterman, late-night talk show host
 * Jay Neitz, vision scientist
 * J. K. Ralston, western painter
 * Flint Rasmussen, rodeo clown
 * Jim Waltermire, Montana Secretary of State

title: Choteau, Montana


text:
Dutton, Montana

Dutton is a town in Teton County, Montana, United States. The population was 303 at the 2020 census.

The town was named for Charles E. Dutton, a general agent for Great Northern Railway. The town was originally a station on the branch line between Great Falls and Conrad.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.31 sqmi, all land.

The landscape has rolling hills along with grassy meadows. The area is heavily given to agricultural pursuits. It is located in what is referred to as the "Golden Triangle", a region renowned for its wheat and barley production.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 316 people, 149 households, and 92 families residing in the town. The population density was 1019.4 PD/sqmi. There were 172 housing units at an average density of 554.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.8% White, 0.3% Native American, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.1% of the population.

There were 149 households, of which 24.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.7% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.3% were non-families. 36.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.76.

The median age in the town was 48.9 years. 20.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.1% were from 25 to 44; 34.1% were from 45 to 64; and 23.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 47.8% male and 52.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 389 people, 158 households, and 111 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,242.7 PD/sqmi. There were 177 housing units at an average density of 565.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.60% White, 0.26% African American, 1.29% Native American, 0.51% Asian, 1.54% from other races, and 1.80% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.83% of the population.

There were 158 households, out of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.4% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.7% were non-families. 26.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.99.

The age spread of the population is 27.5% under the age of 18, 3.1% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 25.2% from 45 to 64, and 17.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females there were 90.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $34,063, and the median income for a family was $43,068. Males had a median income of $31,563 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,638. About 11.3% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.8% of those under age 18 and 2.5% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Dutton Library serves the town.

Education
The students of Brady, 15 mi north, combine with Dutton to form one school district. Dutton/Brady Public School District educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. In 2022, there were 134 students total enrolled in the district. Dutton/Brady High School's team name is the Diamond Backs.

Media
Dutton is part of the Great Falls media market.

Dutton had its own print newspaper, The Dutton Wheat Center News, which was acquired by Fairfield Sun Times. The Sun Times maintains an archive of some of the original copies of The Wheat Center News.

The FM radio station KVVR is licensed in Dutton. It has an adult contemporary format.

Infrastructure
Interstate 15 passes through the community, with access from Exit 313. Highway 221, travelling from Choteau, has its eastern terminus in Dutton.

Notable people

 * Frank Akins, Washington Redskins running back, was born in Dutton
 * Lloyd J. Andrews, Washington state politician and businessman, was born in Dutton

title: Dutton, Montana


text:
Fairfield, Montana

Fairfield is a town in Teton County, Montana, United States. The population was 759 at the 2020 census. Fairfield is the self-proclaimed "Malting Barley Capital of the World" due to their large crops each year of malt barley.

Fairfield is a trade center for the farming community. It is home to Busch Agricultural Resources, 3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative, and Sun River Electric Cooperative.

History
Fairfield began as a station on the Milwaukee Railroad.

Even though the federal government opened Montana to homesteading in 1862, this area was not initially settled. Given Montana's vast and dry landscape, irrigation was necessary. In 1902 irrigation projects began, which did lead to increased grain production. Then in 1903 the Bureau of Reclamation conducted a survey of the area. The potential of the Sun River Valley was deemed so great it was promoted as “the greatest farming country under the dome of Heaven.” In 1909 homestead size was increased from 160 acres to 320 acres. This change began drawing many more settlers to Montana.

By 1920, three dams and an extensive system of canals were created. The Gibson Dam and reservoir were completed in 1929. Today, Greenfield Irrigation District delivers water from Gibson Dam to approximately 83,000 acres surrounding this community.

Initially the name "Freeze-out Bench" was applied to the area. With irrigation the area produces abundant crops. "Greenfield Bench" and Fairfield now describe the hay and grain fields in the Sun River Valley.

Geography
Fairfield is located at 47.61528°N, -111.98083°W (47.615250, -111.980859). It is between Great Falls and Choteau on Highway 89. Freezout Lake, an important bird migration site, is 5 miles to the west.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.31 sqmi, all land.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Fairfield has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

On December 14, 1924, Fairfield set the record for the largest 12-hour temperature drop in the United States when it went from 63 degrees at noon to minus 21 degrees at midnight.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 708 people, 305 households, and 204 families residing in the town. The population density was 2.8 PD/sqmi. There were 339 housing units at an average density of 1093.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.9% White, 1.3% Native American, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 305 households, of which 30.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.4% were married couples living together, 9.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.1% were non-families. 30.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.91.

The median age in the town was 42.1 years. 27% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22% were from 25 to 44; 26% were from 45 to 64; and 21.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.9% male and 53.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 659 people, 285 households, and 184 families residing in the town. The population density was 2,170.7 PD/sqmi. There were 311 housing units at an average density of 1,024.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.97% White, 0.91% Native American, 0.15% from other races, and 1.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.91% of the population.

There were 285 households, out of which 31.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 8.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were non-families. 32.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 9.4% from 18 to 24, 28.5% from 25 to 44, 18.5% from 45 to 64, and 17.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females there were 95.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $29,018, and the median income for a family was $34,896. Males had a median income of $28,750 versus $18,125 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,255. About 7.7% of families and 11.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.0% of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

Public schools
Fairfield Public Schools serves grades K-12. In 2019, Fairfield Elementary was one of three Montana schools selected by the U.S. Department of Education to receive the National Blue Ribbon School award. That same year, the state honored Fairfield Superintendent Les Meyer as Superintendent of the Year.

From 2010-2015, the high school girls' basketball team, coached by Dustin Gordon, collected 120 consecutive wins solidifying one of the longest winning streaks for a high school girls' basketball team in the United States. Fairfield High School's team name is the Eagles.

Private schools
There is a private Mennonite school in Fairfield.

Libraries
Fairfield has a public library operated in a joint city-county arrangement.

Media
The Fairfield Sun Times is a weekly newspaper that has been in operation, under various names, since the town's founding.

The radio station KINX is licensed in Fairfield.

Notable person

 * Gordon McOmber, Montana Lieutenant Governor, 1988-1989

title: Fairfield, Montana


text:
Kevin, Montana

Kevin is a town in Toole County, Montana, United States. The population was 154 at the 2020 census, equal to the 2010 Census population. The town was named after Thomas Kevin, superintendent of the Alberta Railway & Irrigation Company. Locals pronounce Kevin with a long E, like Keevin.

Oil was discovered in the Kevin Sunburst Oil Field in 1922.

Geography
Kevin is located at 48.74833°N, -111.96611°W (48.748338, -111.966212). Interstate 15 passes near the community, with access from Exit 379. Goedertz Lake is nearby.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.36 sqmi, of which 0.34 sqmi is land and 0.02 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 154 people, 71 households, and 41 families residing in the town. The population density was 452.9 PD/sqmi. There were 90 housing units at an average density of 264.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.7% White, 0.6% African American, and 0.6% Native American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6% of the population.

There were 71 households, of which 25.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.1% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.3% were non-families. 39.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the town was 42 years. 26.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.8% were from 25 to 44; 32.4% were from 45 to 64; and 14.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 53.2% male and 46.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 178 people, 72 households, and 47 families residing in the town. The population density was 511.8 PD/sqmi. There were 91 housing units at an average density of 261.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 88.76% White, 5.62% Native American, 1.12% Asian, 0.56% Pacific Islander, 3.37% from other races, and 0.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.62% of the population.

There were 72 households, out of which 37.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.7% were non-families. 29.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.1% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 15.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 97.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.5 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $20,417, and the median income for a family was $29,167. Males had a median income of $30,625 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,003. About 20.5% of families and 19.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.7% of those under the age of eighteen and 21.2% of those 65 or over.

title: Kevin, Montana


text:
Shelby, Montana

Shelby is a city in and the county seat of Toole County, Montana, United States. The population was 3,169 at the 2020 census.

History
Shelby was named in honor of Peter O. Shelby, General Manager of the Montana Central Railway. A railroad station was established here about 1892, at the junction of the Great Northern Railway and the Great Falls & Canada Railway.

On July 4, 1923, the town hosted a heavyweight boxing match between Jack Dempsey and Tommy Gibbons for the undisputed world Heavyweight boxing championship title. This event almost bankrupted the town of Shelby.

In the early 2000s the town hosted a dog camp that made national news. It was named Camp Collie and helped mistreated dogs.

Welker Farms, an agricultural operation known for its popular social media channels, is located near Shelby.

The Well Done Foundation, which plugs orphaned and abandoned oil wells, opened a visitors' center in Shelby in 2020.

Geography
Shelby is near the Marias River and also Aloe Lake.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.18 sqmi, of which 6.03 sqmi is land and 0.15 sqmi is water.

Climate
Shelby has four distinct seasons, and is considered an arid climate. Long, severe winters give way to springlike weather anywhere from March to May. Summers can be  dry and hot, and the area is prone to   lightning, hail, and severe thunderstorms during the summer months. Fall weather is often unpredictable, with snow falling during October some years, and temperatures well into the 60s °F (10s °C) stretching until the end of November on other years. Due to the city's location just off of the Rocky Mountain Front, wind is a constant.

Climate data is sparse. A weather station operated in the town from the late 1990s shows slightly higher temperatures than nearby towns such as Cut Bank.

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 3,376 people in 1,245 households, including 717 families, in the city. The population density was 559.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,371 housing units at an average density of 227.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 89.5% White, 0.8% African American, 6.5% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.0%.

Of the 1,245 households 28.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.8% were married couples living together, 9.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.4% were non-families. 37.4% of households were one person and 14% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.84.

The median age was 40.3 years. 18.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 29.3% were from 25 to 44; 29.9% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 58.3% male and 41.7% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 3,216 people in 1,196 households, including 735 families, in the City of Shelby. The population density was 1,018.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,349 housing units at an average density of 427.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.48% White, 0.25% African American, 4.17% Native American, 0.40% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 2.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.24%.

Of the 1,196 households 30.9% had children under 18 living with them, 50.8% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.5% were non-families. 35.5% of households were one person and 16.1% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 3.07.

The age distribution was 24.0% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 29.5% from 25 to 44, 22.9% from 45 to 64, and 16.4% 65 or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 107.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 108.9 males.

The median household income was $29,219 and the median family income was $41,046. Males had a median income of $27,634 versus $19,444 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,071. About 6.1% of families and 8.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.8% of those under age 18 and 7.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Shelby Public Schools educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. In the 2021-2022 school year, Shelby High School had 112 students enrolled. The school's team name is the Coyotes.

Toole County Library is a public library in Shelby.

Media
The Shelby Promoter is the newspaper for Shelby. It is printed weekly and also offers an e-edition.

Two radio stations are licensed in Shelby. KSEN AM 1150 and KZIN-FM 96.7 are both owned by Townsquare Media.

Infrastructure

At Shelby station, Amtrak, the national passenger rail system, provides daily service to Shelby (both east and west), operating its Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle and Portland, Oregon. The freight rail yard is known as the Port of Northern Montana.

Shelby is at the intersection of Interstate 15 and U.S. Route 2.

Northern Transit Interlocal, local bus transportation system. Provides transportation to Great Falls & Kalispell.

Shelby Airport is a county-owned airport two miles north of town. The nearest commercial airport is Great Falls International Airport, 86 mi south.

Notable people

 * James Grady (author), was born and grew up here. He was on the staff of Senator Lee Metcalf, a research columnist for Jack Anderson, author of Six Days of the Condor (filmed as Three Days...) and numerous other spy and crime novels, and writer for Politics Daily. Resident of Washington DC area.
 * Jack Horner, paleontologist, was born here.
 * Larry Krystkowiak, former NBA player (1986–1996), grew up here. He is the former head men's basketball coach at his alma mater, the University of Montana and former head coach of the NBA's Milwaukee Bucks. He was named the head coach at the University of Utah in March 2011.
 * Leroy Hood, scientist associated with the Human Genome Project grew up here and graduated from Shelby High School in 1956.

title: Shelby, Montana


text:
Sunburst, Montana

Sunburst is a town in Toole County, Montana, United States. The population was 333 in the 2020 census.

It is roughly 30 miles north of Shelby and is near the Canada–US border.

History
Sunburst has its origins as a farming community and later saw significant population growth after oil development occurred in the 1920s. A refinery was built in 1922 with the discovery of oil in the Kevin Sunburst Oil Field. Since oil development in the area ceased in the 1970s, Sunburst has once again become a primarily agricultural town. The local high school gives homage to its past, as its students are known as the Sunburst Refiners. Its name comes from what is considered a dramatic sunrise that occurs when the sun comes over the Sweetgrass Hills and illuminates the local fields.

Sunburst incorporated in 1924.

Geography
Sunburst is located at 48.88333°N, -111.90889°W (48.883255, -111.908754). Interstate 15 passes through the community, with access from Exit 389. The Long Lake Waterfowl Production Area is nearby.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.99 sqmi, of which 1.75 sqmi is land and 0.24 sqmi is water.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Sunburst has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

Demographics
As of 2000 the median income for a household in the town was $58,250, and the median income for a family was $56,038. Males had a median income of $34,500 versus $11,333 for females. The per capita income for the town was $20,244. About 1.7% of families and 4.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.4% of those under age 18 and 3.7% of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 375 people, 150 households, and 107 families residing in the town. The population density was 214.3 PD/sqmi. There were 176 housing units at an average density of 100.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.9% White, 0.5% Native American, 0.5% from other races, and 4.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.7% of the population.

There were 150 households, of which 34.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.7% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 28.7% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 2.98.

The median age in the town was 39.4 years. 25.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.1% were from 25 to 44; 31.9% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.6% male and 50.4% female.

Education
Sunburst Schools educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. North Toole County High School's team name is the Refiners.

North Toole County Library is a public library in Sunburst.

title: Sunburst, Montana


text:
Hysham, Montana

Hysham is a town in and the county seat of Treasure County, Montana, United States. The population was 276 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Hysham is located at 46.29056°N, -107.23°W (46.290535, -107.229929). According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.21 sqmi, all land.

Hysham is bordered to the north by the Yellowstone River. The surrounding area is composed of rolling hills and farmland.

History
When the Montana Territory became the state of Montana in 1889 the future site of Hysham was just a blank spot in the rolling prairie along the Yellowstone River. At that time, the area was within sprawling Custer County, which covered much of eastern Montana, and also included the eastern part of the Crow Indian Reservation. The area was opened up to homesteading in 1906 after the federal government moved the Crow Indian Reservation boundary further west to its present location. This made possible the development of farms and ranches throughout the area and at the same time allowed the settlement of small towns like Hysham (Cheney 1984).

The location and founding of the town of Hysham is intertwined with its ranching and railroad history. A large cattle ranch, the Flying E, ran thousands of heads of cattle in the region. Charlie J. Hysham had moved from the town of Red Oak, Iowa, to manage the ranch. In order to facilitate the delivery of the large amounts of supplies the Flying E ranch required, the Northern Pacific Railroad built a siding to unload goods and materials that Hysham had ordered from Billings and Forsyth. In 1907, the siding became the nucleus for the town of Hysham. (Cheney 1984; Kimball 1976).

James O. Lockard built the first building on the future site of Hysham shortly after the area was open to homesteading. Later, his homestead south of the railroad tracks would become the "Lockard Addition" in Hysham. The general store was located north of the railroad tracks and also served as Hysham's first post office with Lockard appointed the first postmaster. Hysham slowly grew by a general process typical throughout the frontier where an initial commercial or transportation need would establish the site, which would then grow as settlers homesteaded nearby. This would, in turn, resulted in the need for other commercial enterprises followed by schools, churches, banks, government and other civic institutions (Cheney 1984; Kimball 1976; Sanborn 1920).

In 1906 there were two stores, a lumber yard and a blacksmith shop. The first school at the growing community was built in 1908. Ada Channel, who had a homestead near the railroad siding, became the school's first teacher. She was also a key figure in the formation of Hysham. This same year, she worked to locate a town site with the help of James Lockard and F. L. Baker. The three town founders plotted town lots on 40 acre of Channel's homestead. E. C. Sampson completed the process with a survey, which established the town's streets. Two other additions were added later. The First Addition added 40 acre south of the original site and the Rogers Addition was established north of the railroad depot. Even though Charlie Hysham had moved away from the area by this time, the new town was named Hysham in his honor. The town was officially incorporated in 1916 (Sanborn 1920: Kimball 1976; Cheney 1984).

As more families were attracted to the area, more businesses were established. Town mayor, James Lyndes, the started a real estate business with C. M. Patterson and opened a law office. He served as the first County Attorney and Hysham's first Mayor. Lyndes' wife Mary Alice served as chairman of the school board and for the first few years, the high school was held above the Lyndes and Patterson store. Also among the first town's residents were F. L. and Christiania Baker. Baker owned a threshing machine and did custom threshing (Kimball 1976).

Another phase of the community development process usually occurred after the initial settlers became established and then encouraged friends and relatives to move to the area. Such was the case with the Lyndes family. After James Lyndes set up his law and real estate business, four of his brothers: Bert, Wallace, Elmer and C. W. "Kid" and their families, became some of the earliest Hysham residents (Kimball 1976).

With the growth of commercial and agricultural businesses came the need for banks to finance the economic growth. The first bank in Hysham was the First National Bank, established in 1910, with J. W. Wagner serving as president. The bank continued to serve the community for more than half a century. Five years later, C. C. Jordan gambled on the boom caused by World War I and opened the Treasure State Bank. However, this bank was not as fortunate as its predecessor and ran into hard times with the post-war recession and a brutal winter in 1919, which severely damaged many of the area's cattle ranches. It was forced to close in 1922, which further hurt many local ranchers who had invested heavily in the bank (Kimball 1976).

For the most part, however, the 1910s were a period of prosperity. Hysham boasted of concrete sidewalks with modern infrastructure including electric lights, telephone, water, and sewer. New businesses included an International Harvester dealership, a drug store, a hotel, the Pin-Con confections and ice cream parlor, a hardware business, a grocery store, the Rosebud Flour mill, a grain elevator, a butcher shop, a bakery, the Hysham Echo newspaper, a barber shop and pool hall as well as other enterprises. Besides new businesses, the decade saw the establishment of many social institutions such as the Hysham Community Church, the Presbyterian Church, the Hysham School, the Hysham Women's Club and the Buffington Hall, which was used for dances, basketball games, community meetings and other programs until it burned down in 1939 (Kimball 1976; Cheney 1984).

Another development, which occurred during the 1910s, was the improvement of the area's road system. In 1914, the Montana State Highway Commission placed the "Yellowstone Trail" county road between Custer and Hysham on the Federal-Aid highway system. The road eventually followed a county road that ran just south of the Yellowstone River, crossing it over the Myers Bridge, which was a multi-span steel through truss span built in 1907. Other roads were either constructed or improved during this period (Axline 1991).

Symbolic of this perseverance in the face of adversity, was the construction of the Yucca Theatre in 1931 by local businessman and politician, David M. Manning and his brother Jim Manning, just when the nationwide depression was at its nadir. This striking building is in the Mission style, which may have been the result of Manning's time spent in the Southwest where he would have seen similar buildings. However, it was unique to the Hysham area and undoubtedly was a source of civic pride to the community and does to this day show movies every Sunday. (U.S. Department of Interior 1993).

Manning went on to become the owner or part owner of five different businesses; he helped build the city swimming pool and city water system; he built two dams in the Hysham area and improved the irrigation system. In addition to his many projects and businesses in Hysham, he also served in the Montana legislature where he was instrumental in promoting rural electrification and highway construction (U.S. Department of Interior 1993). After 52 continuous years of service (1933–1985), he retired as Dean of the Montana Senate and senior state legislator in the nation (Andrea Merrill-Maker, Montana Almanac, p. 159).

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Hysham has a hot-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 312 people, 145 households, and 94 families residing in the town. The population density was 1485.7 PD/sqmi. There were 175 housing units at an average density of 833.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 92.6% White, 1.9% Native American, 1.0% Asian, and 4.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.6% of the population.

There were 145 households, of which 20.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 3.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.2% were non-families. 33.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 2.69.

The median age in the town was 52.8 years. 18.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.4% were from 25 to 44; 34% were from 45 to 64; and 28.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.3% male and 49.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 330 people, 150 households, and 91 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,574.8 PD/sqmi. There were 172 housing units at an average density of 820.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.55% White, 3.94% Native American, 0.30% Asian, and 1.21% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.91% of the population.

There were 150 households, out of which 24.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.0% were married couples living together, 5.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.7% were non-families. 37.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.5% under the age of 18, 4.5% from 18 to 24, 18.2% from 25 to 44, 31.2% from 45 to 64, and 20.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females there were 96.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,179, and the median income for a family was $39,063. Males had a median income of $31,250 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,743. About 5.8% of families and 13.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.2% of those under age 18 and 9.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Hysham Public Schools educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Hysham High School's team name is the Rebels.

Notable people

 * Cass Bauer-Bilodeau, former collegiate and professional women's basketball player, was born in Hysham.
 * David Manning, longest-serving state legislator in U.S. history
 * Lee Nye, photographer, was born in Hysham.

title: Hysham, Montana


text:
Fort Peck, Montana

Fort Peck is a town in Valley County, Montana, United States. The population was 239 at the 2020 census.

History
The name Fort Peck is associated with Col. Campbell K. Peck, the partner of Elias H. Durfee in the Leavenworth, Kansas trading firm of Durfee and Peck. In 1867, company employee Abe Farwell constructed the Fort Peck trading post along the Missouri River, which enjoyed a virtual monopoly in trade with the Sioux and Assiniboine people. After its short life as a trading post, Fort Peck served as an Indian agency from 1873 until 1878. At that time, the agency was moved to its current location at Poplar. Fort Peck had a post office from 1879 to 1881.

A new town of Fort Peck, located approximately two miles north of the original, was built in 1934 to house Army Corps of Engineers employees involved in the construction of the Fort Peck Dam. Designed to be temporary, the government-owned town nevertheless included many features of a permanent town, including an administrative headquarters, a hospital, stores, a theater, a recreation hall, and other facilities. Totally inadequate to house the 10,000-plus employees, Fort Peck was soon joined by numerous shanty towns, including Wheeler, New Deal, Delano Heights, and Park Grove. The Fort Peck Original Houses Historic District, the Fort Peck Theatre, and the hospital, administration building, and other associated public works properties are listed in the National Register.

The Administration Building, the Employee's Hotel and Garage, the Garage and Fire Station, the Hospital, and the Recreation Hall of the government-run town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Culture
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which oversees the powerhouses, dam, lake, and dredge cuts, is the major employer in Fort Peck, as well as, other government programs. Until recently all of the houses in Fort Peck were government built.

Fort Peck draws people from hundreds of miles away to recreate around Fort Peck Reservoir. Most popular is utilizing the lake and dredge cuts for boating, swimming, and fishing. Camping and barbecuing are very popular and facilities for camping and cooking are well developed.

Besides the lake, Fort Peck offers several more activities. The Fort Peck Theatre performs plays during the summer and draws large crowds. The Fort Peck Interpretive Center shows the history of the area, from the dinosaurs to the dam.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.86 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 233 people, 99 households, and 73 families living in the town. The population density was 270.9 PD/sqmi. There were 110 housing units at an average density of 127.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 93.6% White, 3.0% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 3.0% from two or more races.

There were 99 households, of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.7% were married couples living together, 2.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.3% were non-families. 21.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.74.

The median age in the town was 48.9 years. 18% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.4% were from 25 to 44; 39.9% were from 45 to 64; and 18.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 52.8% male and 47.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 240 people, 91 households, and 75 families living in the town. The population density was 274.9 PD/sqmi. There were 99 housing units at an average density of 113.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.25% White, 2.08% Native American, and 1.67% from two or more races.

There were 91 households, out of which 38.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 73.6% were married couples living together, 5.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.5% were non-families. 14.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 2.89.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.8% under the age of 18, 2.9% from 18 to 24, 21.7% from 25 to 44, 32.9% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $47,083, and the median income for a family was $50,938. Males had a median income of $32,500 versus $33,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,943. None of the families and 0.8% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 6.9% of those over 64.

Notable people

 * Ron Hauge, Emmy award-winning writer for The Simpsons grew up here.
 * Wayne Hawkins, Oakland Raiders guard, was born here.

title: Fort Peck, Montana


text:
Frazer, Montana

Frazer is a census-designated place (CDP) in Valley County, Montana, United States, located within the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, about 80 miles from the Canadian border. The population was 420 at the 2020 census.

The St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railway established Frazer as a station in 1888. A post office opened in 1907.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 1.7 sqmi, of which 1.7 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (1.75%) is water.

Transportation
Amtrak’s Empire Builder, which operates between Seattle/Portland and Chicago, passes through the town on BNSF tracks, but makes no stop. The nearest station is located in Wolf Point, 19 mi to the east.

Education
Frazer School educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Frazer High School's team name is the Bearcubs.

title: Frazer, Montana


text:
Glasgow, Montana

Glasgow is a city in and the county seat of Valley County, Montana, United States. The population was 3,202 at the 2020 census.

Despite being just the 23rd most populous city in Montana, Glasgow is the most populous city for over 110 mi, thus making it an important economic hub for a large region in Eastern Montana. Both Amtrak and the National Weather Service operate facilities in Glasgow that link the city to the surrounding region.

History
Native Americans inhabited the region for centuries, and extensive buffalo and pronghorn antelope herds provided ample food for the nomadic tribes. The Nakoda, Lakota, and Dakota peoples alternately inhabited and claimed the region from the 16th to the late 19th centuries. In 1804 the Lewis and Clark Expedition came within 15 mi of the future site of Glasgow and noted the extensive herds of buffalo and various game. In 1851, the US government formed the first treaty with the Native American tribes, in 1885 the tribes engaged in the last known buffalo hunt in the region.

From 1885 to Montana Statehood in 1889, the tribes participated in agreements with the US government to re-drawing the Fort Peck reservation boundaries in exchange for federal subsidies. As more and more homesteaders moved into the surrounding areas, pressure was placed on Congress to open up the Fort Peck Reservation to homesteading, resulting in tribes leaving the Glasgow area.

Glasgow was founded in 1887 as a railroad town by James Hill, who was responsible for creating many communities along the Hi-Line. He and a local railroader named the town when they spun a globe with a finger landing on Glasgow, Scotland. Glasgow grew during the 1930s when President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized the construction of the Fort Peck Dam, which became a major source of employment for the Glasgow area.

During World War II, the Glasgow Army Airfield housed the 96th Bombardment Squadron and 614th Bombardment Squadron, flying B-17 Flying Fortresses, at different times during the war. Starting in December 1944, a German POW camp was established at the facility, lasting until the end of the war. After the war ended the base was closed, and part of the facility eventually became the present day Glasgow Valley County Airport. Glasgow was the death place of Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Speirs, famed member of Easy Company, 101st Airborne.

In the 1960s, the population rose to about 6,400 due to the nearby presence of the Glasgow Air Force Base, (SAC air command and housing B-52 bombers) used during the Vietnam War and the earlier part of the Cold War. A significant amount of mid-century modern and Googie-style architecture was built then. After the de-activation and closure of the base in 1969, Glasgow's population declined to about half its one-time size by 1990, when the loss rate stabilized. Glasgow still functions as the major regional administrative, shopping and services hub for Valley County and some of the areas beyond.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.43 sqmi, all land. The town has an elevation of 2093 ft. It is nestled in the Milk River Valley with the river itself meandering along to south.

Glasgow is 18 mi west of Fort Peck Lake, the fifth largest artificial lake in the United States. The lake is popular for fishing and for recreation. The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge surrounds the lake providing an opportunity to experience nearly the same surroundings as encountered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805.

Using data from Oxford University's Big Data Institute, The Washington Post, in 2018, identified Glasgow as "the middle of nowhere" for the contiguous United States. The article stated "Of all towns with more than 1,000 residents, Glasgow... is farthest –about 4.5 hours in any direction –from any metropolitan area of more than 75,000 people".

Climate
Glasgow experiences a continental semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification BSk) with long, dry winters with typically freezing but exceedingly variable temperatures and hot, dry summers. The extreme variability of winter temperatures is due to the large warming produced by chinook winds as air descending from the Rockies is warmed, contrasting with very cold continental air masses typical of inland locations at this latitude. As an illustration, the record cold month of February 1936 averaged −15.8 F, but the two warmest Februaries of 1931 and 1984 averaged above 32 F and had mean maxima above 43.5 F. Snowfall averages 34.8 in per year. Tornadoes are a rare occurrence. Two F2 tornadoes did, however, hit the Glasgow area on June 25, 1975.

Demographics
As of the 2010 census, there were 3,250 people, 1,479 households, and 834 families residing in the city. The population density was 2272.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,653 housing units at an average density of 1155.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 91.8% white, .2% African American, 4.5% Native American, .3% Asian, .4% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.8% of the population.

There were 1,479 households, of which 26.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 9.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.6% were non-families. 39.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.85.

The median age in the city was 45.6 years. 22.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.3% were from 25 to 44; 28% were from 45 to 64; and 22.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.8% male and 52.2% female.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,504. 14.5% of the population were below the federal poverty line, compared to 15.1% for the USA as a whole.

Economy
In May 2012, the major industries present in Glasgow were retail (23% of employment), public administration (16%), construction (14%), and health care and social assistance (7%). Farmers and farm services comprised 4% of employment. , the unemployment rate was 3.2%.

For Valley County, the median value of owner-occupied housing units was $160,800 from 2017 to 2021.

Education
Glasgow is served by the Glasgow School District with three public schools. For the 2021-2022 school year, 379 students were enrolled in kindergarten through 5th grade at Irle Elementary School. At Glasgow Middle School, for 6th-8th grade, 167 students were enrolled. Glasgow High School had 245 students enrolled. The team name for the school is the Scotties.

From 2017-2022 census data on those 25 years and older in Valley County, 93% had attained high school graduation or higher, 19.1% had a Bachelor's degree or higher.

Glasgow City-County Library serves the area.

Sports
As of 2023, the Scotties of Glasgow High School have won 48 Montana state championships. Glasgow High School offered 13 sports in 2023. Since the 1992–93 school year, they have competed as a Class B school, a designation used by the Montana High School Association based on population.

They have won 14 state championships and 33 state trophies in boys wrestling. The Girls Cross Country team has won the state championship 16 times.

The Glasgow Reds baseball team competes in the American Legion Baseball league, played by 13-to-19-year-olds. They finished second at the state championships in 2000 and 2012 and third in 1999, 2013, and 2015.

Crime
There were no reports of rape or murder occurring in Glasgow in 2010, compared with one murder the previous year, and 16 incidents of rape from 2003 to 2008. Overall, the crime rate to 2010 appears to be in a general downward trend, and is well below the national average.

A sheriff's detention facility was completed in April 2011 at a cost of $3.16million. The facility, located downtown, is 10000 sqft and has 26 beds, replacing the 16 beds of the previous jail. The detention center houses inmates from local police and sheriff, as well as regional inmates for agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Montana Highway Patrol and has an average of 16 inmates on any given day.

Rail
Glasgow is on the Hi-Line of the BNSF Railway and is served daily westbound and eastbound by Amtrak's Empire Builder route.

Air
Glasgow is served by Glasgow Valley County Airport and has daily commercial service to Billings. Since 2013, the commercial air service provider is Cape Air.

Bus
Glasgow and the greater Valley County region are served by a non-profit taxi/bus service called Valley Country Transit. Bus and/or Van rides are available daily for in-county travel purposes. Riders are charged on a per trip basis and must call in a ride. As of 2022, the transportation service, Uber is also now in operation within city limits.

Roads
Glasgow is located on U.S. Highway 2, which is a major east-west traffic corridor of the northern Great Plains region. Montana Highway 24 passes nearby the city, a major north-south route connecting southern Montana to Canada. No Interstates run near the region.

Media
Glasgow is part of the Glendive Media Market, as of 2021, the smallest tracked by Neilson serving an estimated 3,900 homes.

Newspaper

 * The Glasgow Courier, established in 1913 and published every Wednesday, is the newspaper of record for Valley County,
 * The BS Buzz, is a daily newspaper published by BS Central Inc. The Buzz offers advertising options on daily, weekly and monthly rates.

Local radio stations

 * KLTZ, 1240 AM
 * KLAN, 93.5 FM

Local television stations

 * K18BN-D (18.1 PBJ) UHF 18

Notable people

 * Stacy Edwards, actress
 * Julie Golob, professional sharpshooter and competition shooter
 * Ann Hould-Ward, Tony-winning costume designer
 * Michael McFaul, former United States Ambassador to Russia
 * Donald Grant Nutter, 15th governor of Montana
 * Tony Raines, NASCAR driver
 * Uan Rasey, trumpeter who played on several motion picture soundtracks in the 1950s and 1960s
 * Steve Reeves, bodybuilder and actor
 * Daanyaal Hussain, Race car driver for the now defunct Talbot
 * Jerry Rosholt, journalist and author
 * Brian Salonen, NFL player
 * Anthony Washington, three-time Olympic discus thrower

title: Glasgow, Montana


text:
Nashua, Montana

Nashua is a town in Valley County, Montana, United States. The population was 301 at the 2020 census.

The town was established as a station on the St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railway in 1888. Nashua had a brief economic boom during the building of Fort Peck Dam in the 1930s.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.66 sqmi, all land.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Nashua has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 290 people, 136 households, and 85 families residing in the town. The population density was 439.4 PD/sqmi. There were 183 housing units at an average density of 277.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.5% White, 2.8% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 136 households, of which 23.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.5% were non-families. 35.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.66.

The median age in the town was 50.8 years. 19.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.9% were from 25 to 44; 35.4% were from 45 to 64; and 21.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 53.1% male and 46.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 325 people, 166 households, and 92 families residing in the town. The population density was 489.1 PD/sqmi. There were 195 housing units at an average density of 293.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 92.00% White, 0.31% African American, 5.54% Native American, 0.31% Asian, 0.31% from other races, and 1.54% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.15% of the population.

There were 166 households, out of which 15.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 1.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.0% were non-families. 41.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.96 and the average family size was 2.61.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 14.8% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 21.2% from 25 to 44, 32.0% from 45 to 64, and 25.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females there were 127.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 16.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $26,827, and the median income for a family was $35,000. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $17,188 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,452. About 1.0% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 5.3% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation
Amtrak’s Empire Builder, which operates between Seattle/Portland and Chicago, passes through the town on BNSF tracks, but makes no stop. The nearest station is located in Glasgow, 15 mi to the west.

High school
Despite the small number of students in the town's high school (7-12 in a graduating class), basketball, track and field, volleyball, cheerleading as well as American football are accessible to all students because of cooperation with a neighboring high school. The school also offers the possibility of joining the Art Club or the FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) Club. Nashua High School's team name is the Porcupines.

title: Nashua, Montana


text:
Opheim, Montana

Opheim is a town in Valley County, Montana, United States. The population was 75 at the 2020 census.

History

 * Opheim was named for Alfred Sumner Opheim (1872-1949), who together with his wife Helen (Ouandahl) Opheim (1874-1930), served as the first postmasters  of the town.
 * The town was founded before the expansion of the Great Northern Railway, but benefited by having its own depot. In the early 1990s, railway abandonment occurred between the towns of Scobey and Opheim.
 * Opheim was once the location of Opheim Air Force Station, a former United States Air Force General Surveillance Radar station. Since its closing in 1979, the population has decreased significantly.

 * The city was also home to many banks, bars, stores, and a movie theater, all of which have changed hands or closed. The town has no major source of income and is currently facing a slow economic decline.

 * Granrud's Lefse in Opheim is one of the few area bakeries that still produces the traditional Norwegian potato flatbread, Lefse.

 * Opheim has a strong Norwegian-American heritage as reflected by the high school's mascot, the Vikings. Opheim High School was the source of media attention in 2008 when the graduating class consisted of one student.
 * Opheim celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2011 over the 4th of July weekend. Hundreds of former residents and former students enjoyed a number of events marking a rich history of immigrant homesteaders that once made Opheim a thriving town of 3,000 residents and business providing services to all of north Valley County.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.21 sqmi, all land.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Opheim has a semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 85 people, 47 households, and 24 families residing in the town. The population density was 404.8 PD/sqmi. There were 69 housing units at an average density of 328.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.6% White and 2.4% from two or more races.

There were 47 households, of which 12.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.6% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.9% were non-families. 46.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.81 and the average family size was 2.54.

The median age in the town was 58.4 years. 11.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 15.4% were from 25 to 44; 42.4% were from 45 to 64; and 27.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 45.9% male and 54.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 111 people, 56 households, and 31 families residing in the town. The population density was 508.5 PD/sqmi. There were 83 housing units at an average density of 380.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.1% White, and 0.9% from two or more races. No African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders, or people of other races live in Opheim. Nobody in Opheim is Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 56 households, out of which 21.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.6% were married couples living together, 10.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.9% were non-families. 41.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.98 and the average family size was 2.63.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 17.1% under the age of 18, 3.6% from 18 to 24, 20.7% from 25 to 44, 27.0% from 45 to 64, and 31.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females there were 105.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $24,583, and the median income for a family was $36,563. Males had a median income of $38,333 versus $25,625 for females. The per capita income for the town was $24,680. 7.2% of the population and no families were below the poverty line. none under the age of 18 and 20.7% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Education
Opheim Public School educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Opheim High School's team name is the Vikings.

title: Opheim, Montana


text:
St. Marie, Montana

St. Marie or Saint Marie is a census-designated place (CDP) in Valley County, Montana, United States. The population was 264 at the 2010 census. It is located at the site of the former Glasgow Air Force Base.

When the Air Force base was decommissioned, the on-base housing was purchased and offered for sale to private individuals. While many of the bids for the houses were from salvage companies, the community ultimately escaped demolition. Homes which had housed thousands of military personnel when the base was in operation were briefly promoted as condominiums for retirees.

Despite local efforts, most of the re-purposed housing units sit empty and abandoned. A few hundred residents remain in what is otherwise a partial ghost town. The runway remains in use as Glasgow Industrial Airport (FAA LID: 07MT), a test site for Boeing aircraft. The nearby city of Glasgow, Montana has dropped in population by half (from 6400 in the 1960s to 3250 in 2010) after the base closure.

Beginning in 2012 the community became embroiled in a series of legal and political conflicts with an anti-government group called the "Citizens Action Committee of Valley County," part of the larger Sovereign Citizen movement, with a similar philosophy to that of the Montana Freemen. The group intended to take ownership of the community though buying and seizing up a large amount of mostly vacant properties though bogus liens and litigation, while ostensibly planning a handful of investment schemes to redevelop them. The situation led to a number of St. Marie property owners being sued and a community backlash against the group followed.

The post office and town hall are still in operation along with a small handful of local businesses, but the school and a majority of businesses have closed. St. Marie has gained some interest from ghost town enthusiasts and back road explorers in recent years for its uniquely Atomic Age appeal, being much more intact and modern than most vacated locales and containing a fair number of larger buildings.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 22.9 sqmi, of which 22.8 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (0.44%) is water.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, St. Marie has a cold semi-arid climate, abbreviated "BSk" on climate maps. The hottest temperature recorded in St. Marie was 103 F on July 24–25, 2007, while the coldest temperature recorded was -39 F on January 13, 2024.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 183 people, 92 households, and 59 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 8.0 people per square mile (3.1/km$2$). There were 1,035 housing units at an average density of 45.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 63.44% White, 2.19% African American, 2.73% Native American, 20.55% Asian, and 1.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 10.55% of the population.

There were 92 households, out of which 14.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.6% were married couples living together, 6.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.8% were non-families. 32.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.45.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 14.8% under the age of 18, 2.7% from 18 to 24, 12.0% from 25 to 44, 35.5% from 45 to 64, and 35.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 60 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $33,750, and the median income for a family was $34,792. Males had a median income of $18,750 versus $17,188 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $16,314. None of the families and 2.3% of the population were living below the poverty line.

At its peak, St. Marie was home to over 7,000 permanent residents and intended to house nearly 10,000.

title: St. Marie, Montana