Forsyth Water Pumping Station

Historical marker location:
Forsyth, Montana
( Marker is at the intersection of 3rd Avenue North and Oak Street, on the left when traveling north on 3rd Avenue North.)

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In the early 20th century, Montana was a center of activity for the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), a radical labor organization that advocated for the overthrow of capitalism and the establishment of a worker-controlled society. The state was the site of several major strikes and labor conflicts during this time, including the Anaconda Road Massacre of 1920, in which striking miners were killed by National Guard troops.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.