Black Diamonds from the Treasure State

In the late 19th century, railroads played a crucial role in the development of Montana's economy. Robert A. Schalla examines early efforts to bring rail transport to the New World Mining District near Yellowstone National Park and Red Lodge–Bear Creek Coal Field in south-central Montana. The completion of the Montana, Wyoming & Southern Railroad (MW&S) in 1906 resulted in the creation of three new towns and six separate mining operations. The MW&S was one of the few privately owned lines in Montana that maintained its independence until it was abandoned.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2024
Publisher: Indiana University Press

In the late 19th century, railroads played a pivotal role in the development of Montana's economy. Robert A. Schalla delves into the early endeavors to establish rail transport in the New World Mining District near the northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park and the Red Lodge–Bear Creek Coal Field in south-central Montana. The saga commenced with a fortuitous discovery in 1866 and chronicles the exploits of individuals who dedicated themselves to bringing rail transportation to the mines of southern Montana.

Beginning with Northern Pacific's unsuccessful attempts to construct a railroad through Yellowstone, this narrative follows the challenges of various privately financed schemes aimed at harnessing the immense mineral wealth of these two regions. A young entrepreneur from Milwaukee achieved the remarkable feat of financing a railroad to the coal fields, but his ambitious plan to extend the line to the national park encountered opposition from Howard Elliott, the president of Northern Pacific, who was determined to force him out of business. The story delves into the motivations and backgrounds of these individuals, exploring their triumphs and failures.

The culmination of the Montana, Wyoming & Southern Railroad (MW&S) in 1906 brought about the establishment of three new towns and six distinct mining operations. The MW&S stood as one of the few privately owned lines in Montana that, despite facing various obstacles, managed to maintain its independence until it was abandoned. For nearly fifty years, it played a significant role in the state's economy, serving as a vital link as the Bear Creek mines provided high-quality coal to private, commercial, and industrial consumers.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 250 x 150 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253068194