Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
1954, much of the area and its 50-plus buildings were donated to the state for preservation.
Sadly, one of the buildings was entirely washed away and many others damaged in a flash
flood in July 2013.
The town site is well preserved but not restored or commercialized, which makes it an
interesting place to visit. Bannack's history is fascinating, and many of its stories come to
life in the buildings and grounds in the state park. Henry Plummer, the sheriff of both Ban-
nack and Virginia City, was famously hanged here by a group of vigilantes in 1864. He is
reportedly buried at the site. The gallows and cemetery can be visited, and nearly all the
buildings can be entered.
The
visitors center
(10am-6pm daily summer, 11am-5pm Sat.-Sun. Labor Day-late
Oct.) is open depending on staff availability.
Held annually the third weekend in July,
Bannack Days
(406/834-3413, $5/vehicle) is
a celebration of the way life was when Bannack was in its prime. The weekend kicks off
with a breakfast (7am Sat.) at
Hotel Meade.
Throughout the day there are a variety of
pioneer demonstrations, including quilting, basket making, blacksmithing, and shooting a
black-powder rifle. Lots of old-time delicacies—think kettle corn, fry bread, and fresh lem-
onade—are available, along with live music and an abundance of theatrics.
