Bannack's history dates to July 1862 when gold was discovered along the
banks of Grasshopper Creek.
Population went from 400 to 3,000 people.
It became a virtual ghost town after 1863 when the gold ran out.
Mining artifacts from all major mining operations.
County courthouse built in 1875 for $14,000.
In 1891 it was remodeled into the Meade Hotel.
The Methodist Church was the only church in town.
Note wire loop under the church seat to hold cowboy hat during service.
Skinner's Saloon was popular gathering place for outlaws which included
the former sheriff who was hanged.
Jail was seldom used because no one wanted the job of guarding the prisoners. Offenders were warned, kicked out of town, or hanged.
The Gallows could be seen by prisoners from their jail cell.
In the blacksmith shop branding iron samples are burned on the walls.
This building housed a private school on the first floor and
Masonic Lodge on second floor.
The Lodge number is still active and has members
around the world.
There are 104 historic buildings in the Bannack State Park
located 21 miles from Dillon.
Nearby are two more historic mining towns of
Virginia City and Nevada City.
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