National Register Listing

Bones Brothers Ranch

a.k.a. Z.T. Cox Ranch

Along Hanging Woman Creek, W of Custer National Forest (3 miles southeast of Birney), Birney, MT
Local significance of the district:
Exploration/settlement; Agriculture; Entertainment/recreation; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The state of Montana has a rich Native American history, with several tribes, including the Blackfeet, Crow, Salish, and Kootenai, having lived in the region for thousands of years. Many Native American traditions and customs are still practiced in Montana today, including powwows and traditional beadwork.
Montana random facts
Rosebud County, located in the southeastern part of Montana, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Cheyenne, and Crow. However, the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century marked a significant turning point in Rosebud County's history.

In 1881, the Northern Pacific Railway constructed a line through the region, leading to the establishment of several towns, including Rosebud, Forsyth, and Colstrip. These towns quickly grew as settlers arrived in search of opportunities in ranching, farming, and coal mining. Rosebud County became known for its vast cattle ranches and fertile agricultural land.

During the early 20th century, Rosebud County witnessed significant development in coal mining. Large-scale operations were established in areas like Colstrip, contributing to the county's economic growth. The coal mining industry thrived for many years and became a major employer in the region.

In recent years, Rosebud County has faced various challenges, including the declining coal industry and the impacts of climate change. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy and explore new sources of renewable energy. Despite these challenges, Rosebud County remains a picturesque region with a blend of scenic landscapes, small towns, and a rich cultural heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rosebud County, Montana.

  • 1879 - Rosebud County is established as a county in the Montana Territory.
  • 1886 - The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad reach Forsyth, the county seat.
  • 1901 - Colstrip is founded as a mining town.
  • 1907 - The first oil well is drilled in the county, marking the beginning of oil production in the area.
  • 1918 - The Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation is established in the southeastern part of the county.
  • 1940s - The construction of the Fort Peck Dam and Reservoir brings economic growth to the county.
  • 1954 - The Rosebud Coalfield is discovered, leading to increased coal mining activity.
  • 1979 - The Colstrip Power Plant begins operation, becoming one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the western United States.
  • 1998 - The Custer National Forest expands to include a significant portion of Rosebud County.
  • 2006 - The Rosebud Mine, one of the largest coal mines in the state, surpasses 500 million tons of coal production.