Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In many ways, the heartland of Montana doesn't look all that different from the heartland of
the United States. Small towns with strong identities and long, hard histories lie amid vast
swaths of agricultural land, rolling fields, and—here is where things are different—humble
mountains on the horizon. Though Lewistown is holding on to its population and the culture
that accompanies it, other towns, like Judith Gap, Harlowton, and White Sulphur Springs,
have struggled to hang on to their residents, most of whom earn a living on the land. There
is great charm in the fact that some places don't change much, and visiting them can be like
stepping back in time.
Long the heart of this region both geographically and for trade, Lewistown (population
5,858, elevation 3,950 feet) was built by a diverse group of immigrants, something that is
reflected in the town's beautiful architecture. The stonework, using local sandstone, was
done largely by Croatians, and the interiors were crafted by Norwegians. The town itself
was incorporated in 1899, and the area was settled by landless Métis, gold seekers, farm-
ers, and ranchers. It is splendidly set amid open fields, rolling prairie, and three mountain
ranges. Although there are three ghost towns in the area—access to which is limited be-
cause they are almost entirely on private land—Lewistown itself is thriving and has become
something of a model for renaissance in Montana. The combination of beautiful scenery,
old-fashioned hospitality, good fishing, and great food has served Lewistown well.
Lewistown Art Center
Located across from the historic courthouse, the
Lewistown Art Center
(323 W. Main St.,
406/535-8278,
www.lewistownartcenter.org
,
11:30am-5:30pm Tues.-Sat., free) is the artist-
ic hub of this artsy community. Monthly gallery shows feature primarily Montana artists,
and the center is the site of numerous arts-related events throughout the year, including mu-
sic, theater, and the town's well-loved
Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering & Western
Music Rendezvous
(406/535-8278,
www.montanacowboypoetrygathering.com
)
, held each
year over four days in mid-August. The center's gift shop sells regional pottery, jewelry,
fused glass, hitched horsehair, and fine art.
