8 Historic Photos That Show Us What It Was Like Living In Montana In The Early 1900s

If there's one thing Montanans love, it's learning about local history. Between our abundance of dinosaur fossils, our rich Native history, and our mining and railroad adventures, there's certainly a lot to talk about -- and that's just the beginning.

The early 1900s really don't seem like all that long ago, but when you see these photos, you'll realize just how different the Treasure State looks today.

1. The John R. Toole Home, Missoula, 1910

John R. Toole served in the Montana State Legislature in 1890. His house was designed in 1902 by architect J.F. Everett. Now the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority house, the home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

2. Aerial shot of Billings, 1904

Billings sure did look different at the turn of the 20th century. However, it was clear even then that it was meant to be Montana's largest city.

3. Downtown Butte, 1904

Once known as the Richest Hill on Earth, Butte was bustling by the early 1900s thanks to its abundant mining industry. With a population of 33,964, it has much more of a small-town vibe now than it did back then.

4. Downtown Bozeman's Sweet Pea Carnival, sometime between 1906 and 1910

The Sweet Pea Carnivals of Bozeman lasted from 1906-1913 and included a parade, creative floats, a coronation, and other festivities. What a beautiful prelude to the Sweet Pea Festival.

5. University Hall at the University of Montana, 1900

The University of Montana was founded in 1893, so this was a brand new building back then. The campus still maintains a lot of its historic touches.

6. The front of the Curtis Music Hall, Butte, early 1900s

Irish-born lawyer and businessman John H. Curtis had this lavish building constructed in 1892. Locals enjoyed many a musical and theatrical performance here throughout the decades.

7. Gilbert Brewery, Virginia City, around 1900

Virginia City is one of Montana's oldest towns, and its most thriving "ghost town." Gilbert Brewery was founded in 1863, making it the oldest brewery in Montana Territory.

8. The brand new Wolf Point Bridge, 1930

Now known as the Lewis and Clark Bridge, this solid structure is still standing today.

Do you consider yourself a Montana history buff? Share your favorite historical stories in the comments!