National Register Listing

St. Peter's Catholic Church

W. Orgain Ave., Wibaux, MT
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

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.

buildings churches religion Roman Catholic denomination
The town of Virginia City, Montana, was a major center of gold mining during the late 19th century. At its peak in the 1870s, the town had a population of over 10,000 and was the territorial capital of Montana. Today, Virginia City is a popular tourist destination and has been preserved as a living ghost town.
Montana random facts
Wibaux County, Montana, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Sioux and Cheyenne, who utilized the land for hunting and gathering. In 1806, the famous explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through the region during their expedition.

The county itself was established on August 17, 1914, and named after Pierre Wibaux, an early pioneer and cattle baron. Wibaux, a Frenchman, came to Montana in the late 1800s and played a crucial role in the development of the region's ranching industry. His success in cattle ranching attracted many settlers to the area, leading to the founding of the county.

During the early years, Wibaux County experienced rapid growth due to the lucrative cattle industry. Railroads were built, bringing in more settlers and facilitating trade. The area quickly became a center for ranching and cattle auctions. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s had a significant impact on the county, causing economic hardships and mass migration.

In recent years, Wibaux County has focused on diversifying its economy beyond ranching. Tourism has become an important industry, with visitors attracted to the county's scenic landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and historical sites. Today, Wibaux County continues to cherish its rich past while embracing the future with a resilient and resourceful community.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wibaux County, Montana.

  • 1881 - Wibaux County was established on October 16, 1881, with Sidney as its county seat.
  • 1883 - The Yellowstone River floods causing devastation in the county.
  • 1887 - The town of Wibaux was founded by Pierre Wibaux and became the county seat in October.
  • 1907 - The Milwaukee Road railway arrived in Wibaux County, bringing increased transportation and trade.
  • 1914 - The town of Beach was incorporated in Wibaux County.
  • 1916 - The county courthouse was constructed in Wibaux.
  • 1937 - The Great Plains Blizzard struck Wibaux County, causing significant damage and loss of livestock.
  • 1948 - The construction of the Intake Dam on the Yellowstone River began.
  • 1962 - Wibaux County experienced severe flooding along the Yellowstone River.
  • 1975 - Theodore Roosevelt Bridge over the Yellowstone River was completed.
  • 1995 - Wibaux County celebrated its centennial anniversary.
  • 2007 - The population of Wibaux County reached its peak at around 1,100 residents.