Peoples' Congregational Church
a.k.a. Sidney Lutheran Bretheran Church
203 2nd Ave., SW, Sidney, MT Local significance of the building: Architecture; Social History
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
About National Register Listings
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 Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through Montana in 1805-1806, on their journey to explore the western portion of the United States. They traveled up the Missouri River and crossed the Rocky Mountains, encountering many Native American tribes and documenting the flora and fauna of the region.
About Richland County
Richland County Timeline
Richland County, Montana has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sioux, Assiniboine, and Cree. These tribes relied on the bountiful natural resources of the region, including the Yellowstone River and the vast grasslands for hunting and gathering.
The first European explorers, such as Lewis and Clark, ventured into the area in the early 1800s. It was not until the late 1800s that settlers began to establish permanent communities in Richland County. The main catalyst for settlement was the construction of the Great Northern Railway, which opened up the region for commerce and trade.
Agriculture played a significant role in the development of Richland County. Early settlers relied on farming and ranching to make a living, with wheat, barley, and cattle becoming the primary industries. As more settlers arrived, small towns like Sidney, Fairview, and Lambert developed as hubs of economic activity.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil changed the landscape of Richland County. Oil fields were discovered in the area, leading to a boom in population and economic prosperity. Oil production became a major industry, attracting workers and businesses to the county.
Today, Richland County continues to thrive as a hub for agriculture, oil production, and various other industries. Its rich history, coupled with its natural beauty and resources, make it a unique and vibrant place to live and visit.
The first European explorers, such as Lewis and Clark, ventured into the area in the early 1800s. It was not until the late 1800s that settlers began to establish permanent communities in Richland County. The main catalyst for settlement was the construction of the Great Northern Railway, which opened up the region for commerce and trade.
Agriculture played a significant role in the development of Richland County. Early settlers relied on farming and ranching to make a living, with wheat, barley, and cattle becoming the primary industries. As more settlers arrived, small towns like Sidney, Fairview, and Lambert developed as hubs of economic activity.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil changed the landscape of Richland County. Oil fields were discovered in the area, leading to a boom in population and economic prosperity. Oil production became a major industry, attracting workers and businesses to the county.
Today, Richland County continues to thrive as a hub for agriculture, oil production, and various other industries. Its rich history, coupled with its natural beauty and resources, make it a unique and vibrant place to live and visit.
Richland County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Richland County, Montana.
- 1836 - The first recorded written history of Richland County dates back to the journey of the American explorer, Franchère, who traveled through the area while exploring the western territories of the United States.
- 1864 - Richland County is officially established as a county within the Montana Territory.
- 1870s - The first permanent settlers begin to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile lands for agriculture and the potential for ranching.
- 1882 - The town of Sidney is founded and becomes the county seat of Richland County.
- 1900s - The Great Northern Railway extends its line through Richland County, leading to increased economic growth and the expansion of towns and settlements in the area.
- 1914 - The discovery of oil in nearby Williston, North Dakota, leads to increased drilling and exploration activities within Richland County.
- 1929 - The construction of Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River begins, creating employment opportunities and stimulating the local economy.
- 1940s - Richland County experiences a population boom as a result of the oil industry and the construction of Fort Peck Dam.
- 1950 - The Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project is completed, allowing for further agricultural development in Richland County.
- 1970s - The oil industry experiences a downturn, leading to a decline in population and economic activity in Richland County.
- 2000s - Richland County sees a resurgence in the oil industry with the development of new drilling technologies, leading to an economic revitalization.