Loading map...

1975 Map of Butte South

Name: 1975 Topographic Map of Butte South
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1975
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1975

About this map

Butte sits at the northern edge of this 1970s landscape, where industrial activity and complex geography meet along the Continental Divide. The map illustrates a region defined by its rich mineral heritage, with numerous active and historical operations such as the Watseca Mine, Hecla Mines, and Silver Star Mine dotting the mountainous terrain. These sites are connected by the Burlington Northern railroad, which follows the natural corridors carved by the Big Hole River and Jefferson River.

Southward, the settlement pattern transitions from the urban density of Butte to smaller agricultural and rail-dependent communities like Twin Bridges, Whitehall, and Melrose. The presence of the Humbug Spires Primitive Area and Deerlodge National Forest highlights the vast tracts of protected land surrounding these towns. Genealogists and local historians can trace the specific locations of the State Childrens Center in Twin Bridges and various cemeteries that reflect the social foundations of this mining and ranching district.