National Register Listing

Philipsburg Historic District

a.k.a. Granite County Jail

Roughly bounded by Gamma St. and Cleveland Ave., Montgomery, Madison and Duffy, and Cedar and McDonald Sts., Philipsburg, MT
Local significance of the district:
Industry; Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Montana.
Montana was the last state to raise its legal drinking age to 21, doing so in 1987 after a federal law was passed that required all states to have a minimum drinking age of 21 or risk losing federal highway funding.
Montana random facts
Granite County, located in the southwestern part of Montana, has a rich and fascinating history that spans back centuries. The area where Granite County now stands was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Salish, Kootenai, and Blackfeet tribes. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources in the region for their livelihood.

In the 1860s, gold was discovered in Granite County, leading to a gold rush. Miners flocked to the area and established numerous mining camps and towns, including Phillipsburg and Granite Ghost Town. These towns quickly grew as miners extracted vast amounts of gold, silver, and other minerals from the area's mines. However, by the early 20th century, the mining boom had started to decline, and many of the mining towns were eventually abandoned.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, agriculture became a significant industry in Granite County. Farming and ranching communities sprang up, and the county became known for its production of wheat, barley, cattle, and sheep. Although agriculture remains important in the county today, it has diversified to include other industries such as tourism and recreation, thanks to the county's stunning natural beauty and its location near National Forests and wilderness areas.

Throughout its history, Granite County has faced challenges such as the decline of mining and the Great Depression, but it has also persevered and adapted. Today, the county is a thriving community that celebrates its rich history while embracing the opportunities of the present. Visitors and residents can explore the remnants of the mining era, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, and experience the warm hospitality of the local communities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Granite County, Montana.

  • 1865: Granite County is established as a gold mining town.
  • 1866: Granite County becomes an official county of Montana Territory.
  • 1872: Philipsburg, the county seat, is founded.
  • 1879: The Montana State Legislature establishes Granite County as a political subdivision of the state.
  • 1880: The county population reaches its peak due to mining activities.
  • 1893: Mining activities decline, affecting the local economy.
  • 1905: Granite County becomes known for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • 1928: The historic Granite County Jail is built in Philipsburg.
  • 1960s: The county experiences a revitalization as tourism flourishes.
  • Present: Granite County continues to be a popular destination for outdoor activities and historic charm.