Montana took a well preserved ghost town and made it into a state park.
Bannack, named after the Bannock Indians, was established in 1862 when gold was discovered in a nearby creek. By 1863 the population had grown to around 3,000. It later became the first territorial capital of Montana. Fifty well preserved buildings remain and you are allowed to enter and explore many of them.
You know this town is old because of things like square headed nails and ornamental door hinges.
Montana has done a great job of telling stories about this town and its colorful people. At one time the sheriff of Bannack was actually the leader of a gang of robbers that killed over 100 men.
The local sidewalk.
From one old building to another.
The above photo is of the premier hotel in town.
The picture below shows the staircase leading to second floor accommodations at the hotel.
Ornamental door hinges were common.
And there were more common hinges as well.
Hand made nails.
The local bar, a dangerous place.
The local church, conveniently located just a few doors down from the bar, appears above.
The picture below was taken in one of the many remaining houses. Often times old newspaper would serve as wallpaper.
Another house still had the decorative wallpaper that was popular back then. It was common to find at least 5 layers of wallpaper applied on top of the previous favorite.
Also, note the transom at the top of the door.
The photo above was sent in by a prior visitor. The photographer is standing at the lectern looking out on the congregation at the church. Is that a ghost on the left side of the frame?
Fifth Wheel Follies! 