1956 Map of Nicholia

About this map

The Continental Divide snake along the high peaks of the Beaverhead Mountains, defining the boundary between Idaho and Montana in this high-altitude landscape. Within Birch Creek Valley, the map captures a period of transition where the infrastructure of early industry remains visible alongside active ranching. Evidence of late 19th-century mining and smelting is preserved at the Hahn (Site) and the settlement of Nicholia, where a Cem and nearby Kilns point to the area's history as a lead and silver producer. The Old R R Grade traces a path through the valley, marking the former route of the narrow-gauge Gilmour and Pittsburgh Railroad. This transport network once connected the remote canyon operations, such as those in Coal Kiln Canyon and Ramsey Canyon, to broader markets before the line was salvaged. Water management is central to the valley floor, indicated by a prominent Ditch and numerous named springs like McCoy Sprs and Slaughterhouse Spring.