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Posted in Montana January 24, 2017 by Jessica Wick

These 9 Rare Photos Show Montana’s Mining History Like Never Before

Montana has quite the mining legacy. Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, and Helena one had more millionaires per capita than anywhere else. Reminders of our history are still prevalent in our mining towns, and these photos show a glimpse into what life was like in the days when working in the mines were the way Montanans made their living.

1. This furnace was used to convert the gold dust to solid metal.

2. Huge motors are required for hoisting machines at copper mines.

3. Armed with their pick axes and shovels, eight men pose in front of a mine in the late 1800s.

4. This was once the home of Charles E. Morris, the pioneer developer of gold mines.

5. The Anaconda Copper Mining Company in 1942.

6. Sharpening bits to be used in pneumatic drills in the copper mines in Anaconda, 1942.

7. Being absent from work was always discouraged at the Anaconda Copper Mining Company.

8. The Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railroad transported ore from the mines in Butte to Anaconda.

9. The is the Ben Bow chromite mine in Stillwater County around 1940.

Montana has such an incredible history. Here are 10 fascinating facts about the Treasure State’s past.

Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.