Elkhorn, Montana
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Elkhorn is a small ghost town in Jefferson County in southwestern Montana, in the Elkhorn Mountains.
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[edit] History
Lodes of silver, described by geologists as Supergene enrichments, were initially discovered in the Elkhorn mountains by Peter Wys, a Swiss Immigrant.[1] Six years later, Anton Holter, a pioneer capitalist from Helena, Montana began developing the mine. Over $14 million in silver was carried from the mine. In 1890, the Sherman Silver Purchase Act passed, creating a high demand for Elkhorn's silver.
During this peak period, Elkhorn boasted 2,5000 inhabitants, a school, hotel, church, stores, saloons, and brothels. Unlike most mining towns, Elkhorn was populated mostly by married European immigrants.[2] In 1893 the Fraternity Hall was constructed for social gatherings, and still remains as one of the most well-preserved buildings in modern Elkhorn.
In the years following, the silver boom and Elkhorn's prosperity began to lessen as the desire for silver decreased. A diptheria epidemic also struck Elkhorn, resulting in many deaths, particularly of children.[3] Soon after, railroad service to Elkhorn was halted and only a fraction of the original inhabitants remained.
[edit] Geography
Elkhorn is located at (46.275, -111.946)[1]. It can only be reached through its neighboring town, Boulder, Montana by taking the I-15 at Boulder exit, continuing 7 miles south on Montana 69, then 11 miles north on county graveled road.
[edit] Demographics
While very few standing buildings remain of the original Elkhorn, a number of cabins have been reoccupied and refurbished.
[edit] External links
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