Smaller on the map than in the stories.
Two communities so far: Augusta and Helena. Got one we're missing?
Still Old School · Helena · Before '50
The Parrot has made candy by hand on Last Chance Gulch since 1922. In 2025 the candy apprentice who started in 2018 bought the place, and she'd like to keep it exactly like this.
Then & Now · Helena · '70s
Between 1973 and 1977, Helena took the cars off Main Street and put in a fake stream. Most towns that built a walking mall tore it out later. Helena didn't.
Remember This? · Helena · '60s
Just below the summit of MacDonald Pass, John Quigley spent more than 30 years building a log-and-stone town by hand. The bar alone used up a whole Douglas fir.
Gone, Not Forgotten · Helena · '10s
For 48 years, "meet you at Bert and Ernie's" was all the directions anybody in downtown Helena needed. Last call on Last Chance Gulch came December 1, 2022.
You're Old School Montana if... the bar in your little town was also the town hall, the cafe, and the message board
You're Old School Montana if... you still say Main Street, and it's been a walking mall since the '70s
You're Old School Montana if... somebody in your family has initials carved into a booth at the candy shop downtown
You're Old School Montana if... you bought bolts one at a time at a hardware counter where they knew your last name
Still Kicking
Burned in 1974. The town held a trapshoot about it.
Been Here Awhile
Not the oldest thing in the building. Doesn't need to be.
Montana Original
It talks for itself.
Coming soon. Know something that belongs here?
Coming soon. Know something that belongs here?
Coming soon. Know something that belongs here?
