“I’m in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love. And it’s difficult to analyze love when you’re in it.” (John Steinbeck)
Since 1864, when the first gold mines were registered, the town of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, has been known as the “Richest Hill on Earth
“I’m in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love. And it’s difficult to analyze love when you’re in it.” (John Steinbeck)
Since 1864, when the first gold mines were registered, the town of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, has been known as the “Richest Hill on Earth.” The gold ran out within a few years, but was quickly replaced by the discovery of silver, which started the mining boom in the region. The miners are long gone, but this historical town still has much to offer to visitors and residents, having made a point of cleaning up the environment while still retaining the atmosphere of its historic past.
Big Sky, Small Town
Bring your parka and gloves, because winters in Butte are long, cold, and often snowy. Summers are brief, but very pleasant with mild temperatures. Over the last few decades, the city has gone from being a mining center to an example of how the heritage of an area after the boom can be preserved.
While there is not an overabundance of living options in Butte, it is possible to find an apartment to rent in the Butte-Silver Bow area. Start the search for a new home early, since availability is limited. Pricing is not as outrageous as in the big urban areas, and is a steal compared with more densely populated parts of the country, but the pickings are relatively slim. Still, once you do find a place, you'll be happy with the cost savings, and boggled at how much nature and space you get for your buck--they don't call this ‘big sky country’ for nothing!
In the downtown area, there are city apartments available in a converted hotel within easy walking distance of restaurants and shopping. There are also several complexes that offer housing, but apartments with paid utilities in Butte may be scarce.
Entertainment Indoors or Out
Those who enjoy experiencing the local flavor of an area will enjoy the many cultural venues here. Museums that represent the importance of the mining industry can be found at historical sites, including some of the first buildings erected in the town. The influence of the Asian people who helped settle Butte is featured at the Mai Wah Museum, and the annual Irish Festival in August offers traditional music, crafts, and cuisine to honor the immigrants who mined the precious gold and silver ore.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for exercise and fresh air. Hiking, fishing, and hunting are all popular activities for residents and visitors. Golfers can hit the links on the public courses offered in Butte and the surrounding area. The fun doesn't stop once Old Man Winter hits the area. Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the mountains are both popular with cold weather fans.
Once you find an apartment for rent, get ready to enjoy all of the events Butte has to offer: The city hosts Evel Knievel days in July to celebrate being the hometown of the famous daredevil. The Montana Folk Festival is a look back at the history and traditions of the state’s founders. Demonstrations about life in the west, musical performances, art displays, and ethnic foods showcase life past and present in this region of the Rockies.
While it may take time to find an apartment in the Butte-Silver Bow community, once there, the fresh air and open spaces provide a scenic and healthy place to call home.
