Granite, Montana - Montana's Silver Queen

Granite, Montana - Page 2

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Though mining continued on a small scale, Granite had all but become a ghost town. However, it began to see a rebirth in 1898, when the mines began operating again, producing about one million dollars of bullion a year until 1901. The mines continued to operate intermittently until the 1930’s. In 1958, new investors began conducting exploration work in the Granite Mine, but when a fire broke out, most of the surface structures were destroyed.

The last resident of Granite, Mae Werning, continued to live in the old town, long after all other residents had left. She spent many years as the town’s caretaker and as a water commissioner for Deer Lodge area ranchers. She died in 1969 at the age of 75.

Today, the old town site is preserved as a Montana State Park. On the road to the town, parts of the old tramway can still be seen. Upon reaching Granite, tailings and mine buildings can be seen on the hillside.

Mae Werning, the last person to live in Granite, Montana, resided in this house. July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

While many of the buildings are long gone, there are still a scattering of a few that remain standing or are in various states of deterioration, including the Miner’s Union Hall, the stone Superintendent’s home, the tumbled down hospital, the old bank vault, and numerous cabins.

Granite is located some five miles southeast of Philipsburg. From downtown Philipsburg, turn south at the four way stop and continue through the railroad underpass. Take the first left and continue for about one mile. Turn right on the road marked with a white sign reading Granite. Keep to left for about four miles to the old mining camp. A 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicle is recommended.

Granite's old main street has just a few buildings left

standing today, July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

Contact Information:

Granite Ghost Town

3201 Spurgin Road

Missoula, Montana 59804

406-542-5500

By 1889, the Superintendent’s House stood at the head of Magnolia Avenue, or "Silk Stocking Row,” where the elite of Granite lived. Today, it is the only home left on the block. July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

Portions of the Bi-Metallic Aerial Tramway, which carried

ore from Granite to the Bi-Metallic Mill in Kirkville can still

be seen. July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

Granite's Company Barn has seen better days,

July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

This image available for photographic prints and downloads HERE!

An old head frame and other mining equipment and

buildings can still be seen below Granite, Montana.

July, 2008, Kathy Weiser.

This image available for photographic prints and downloads HERE!

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