National Register Listing

Beaverhead Rock-Lewis and Clark Expedition

About 14 mi. NE of Dillon, Dillon, MT
Local significance of the site:
Exploration/settlement

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
  A brief timeline of the Lewis and Clark Expedition
  • 1803: President Thomas Jefferson commissions Meriwether Lewis, his personal secretary, to lead an expedition to explore the western territories of the United States and find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean.
  • 1804: Lewis meets up with William Clark, a former army officer and experienced explorer, in Kentucky. They assemble a team of over 30 men and set out on the journey up the Missouri River.
  • 1805: The expedition reaches the Rocky Mountains and crosses the Continental Divide. They build Fort Clatsop on the Pacific coast and spend the winter there, before returning east in the spring of 1806.
  • 1806: Lewis and Clark split up to explore different routes on their way back to St. Louis. They reunite in September and return to civilization, where they are celebrated as national heroes.
  • 1807: The Lewis and Clark Expedition publishes an official account of their journey, called the "History of the Expedition Under the Command of Captains Lewis and Clark," which becomes a bestseller and helps to promote westward expansion.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a significant event in the history of the United States, as it helped to expand the country's knowledge of its western territories and paved the way for future settlement and exploration of the region.

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.
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
Madison County, Montana, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Native American tribes, such as the Shoshone, Bannock, and Salish, first inhabited the region for thousands of years. In the early 1800s, European explorers, including the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, made their way through Madison County, leaving behind a record of their encounters in the area.

In the mid-19th century, the discovery of gold in Montana led to a mass influx of miners, and Madison County experienced its own gold rush. In 1863, gold was discovered along Alder Gulch, resulting in the establishment of several mining towns, including Virginia City and Nevada City. These towns quickly grew into bustling communities, attracting fortune seekers from all over. While the gold rush eventually faded, the remnants of this era can still be seen today with preserved historic buildings and artifacts.

Agriculture became increasingly important in Madison County as the mining boom declined. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for farming and ranching. Farmers cultivated crops like wheat, oats, and barley, while ranchers raised cattle, sheep, and horses. Irrigation systems were developed to support agriculture, and the county's economy became more dependent on these industries.

Over time, Madison County has also become a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Encompassing part of the stunning Yellowstone National Park and the world-renowned Madison River, the county attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe. Today, Madison County is a blend of its rich history, vibrant agricultural communities, and thriving tourism sector, making it a unique and captivating place to visit or call home.

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

  • 1805 - The Lewis and Clark expedition passes through the future Madison County area.
  • Late 1800s - Trappers and fur traders establish temporary camps in the region.
  • 1862 - Gold is discovered in Alder Gulch, leading to a gold rush and the establishment of Virginia City.
  • 1864 - Montana Territory is officially created, which includes present-day Madison County.
  • 1864 - Madison County is established and named after U.S. President James Madison.
  • Late 1800s - Ranching becomes a prominent industry in the county.
  • 1901 - Madison County Courthouse is built in Virginia City.
  • 1957 - Ennis becomes the new county seat, replacing Virginia City.
  • 1977 - Madison-Boulder Earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.8, causes damage in the county.
  • Present - Madison County is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and historic sites.