Granite – Montana’s Silver Queen
Nestled high in the mountains, a mere four miles southeast of Philipsburg, Montana, lies the spectral remains of Granite, a once-thriving silver mining camp. Affectionately dubbed "Montana’s Silver Queen," Granite stands as a poignant reminder of the boom-and-bust cycles that characterized the American West. This high-altitude town, which once pulsated with the energy of over 3,000 residents, now whispers tales of fortune, industry, and the relentless pursuit of precious metals.
The story of Granite begins in 1875 with Eli Holland’s discovery of silver ore. Although Holland initiated the excavation of a small shaft, his initial efforts yielded little immediate progress. The destiny of this mountain site shifted dramatically in 1880, when Charles D. McLure, the astute superintendent of the Hope Mill in Philipsburg, stumbled upon a remarkable specimen of ruby silver. Assays revealed an astounding concentration of 2,000 ounces of silver per ton, instantly transforming the site’s potential.
Recognizing the immense opportunity, McLure partnered with Charles Clark, and together they acquired the property, establishing the Granite Mountain Mining Company. Their ambition was matched by their business acumen as they secured substantial investment from St. Louis, Missouri. Capitalizing the company with a staggering ten million dollars, they embarked on an ambitious development plan, investing $130,000 over the subsequent two years to expand and improve the mine. Their persistence was rewarded in 1882 when they unearthed a particularly rich lode, boasting an impressive 1,700 ounces of silver per ton. This discovery, christened the Bonanza Chute, proved exceptionally lucrative, generating approximately $274,000 worth of silver by the following year.
The burgeoning success of the Granite Mountain Mining Company spurred the development of the company town of Granite in 1884. Land was leased to miners for a nominal $2.50 per month, attracting a diverse influx of workers from various backgrounds. Distinct neighborhoods quickly emerged, reflecting the cultural tapestry of the community. Finnlander Lane housed Finnish miners, Cornish Row was populated by those from Cornwall, and Donegal Lane served as home to Irish and Danish laborers. In stark contrast, Magnolia Avenue became known as "Silk Stocking Row," a testament to its affluent residents, including mine managers, superintendents, doctors, and other professionals associated with the Granite Mine. Complementing this social hierarchy was a sizable Chinese population, primarily residing in the gully below Main Street, alongside those engaged in the activities of the Red Light District.
Despite the rapid construction of homes and businesses, the nascent town faced an immediate challenge: the absence of a local water source. Initially, water had to be laboriously hauled in by wagon from Fred Burr Lake. However, this proved unsustainable, and an ingenious solution was devised: a flume and cistern system that effectively supported the burgeoning camp.
By 1889, Granite had blossomed into a fully fledged community, boasting a comprehensive array of amenities. Four churches provided spiritual sustenance, while the Granite Mountain Star newspaper kept residents informed. A public school catered to the educational needs of the children, and no fewer than 18 saloons quenched the thirst of the hard-working miners. A hospital tended to the sick and injured, a fire station ensured public safety, and a bathhouse offered a respite from the grime of the mines. A three-story Miners’ Union Hall served as a social and organizational hub, a thriving red-light district catered to less savory desires, a bank facilitated financial transactions, and the Moore House, a three-story hotel, was widely regarded as one of the finest establishments in the Territory.
Beyond the necessities of life, Granite offered a diverse range of entertainment options. A roller-skating rink provided recreational amusement, a library fostered intellectual pursuits, a ballpark hosted sporting events, and a thrilling four-mile bobsled run connected Granite to Philipsburg. Three fraternal orders offered camaraderie and social networking opportunities. The Miners’ Union Hall regularly hosted traveling theatre troupes and local dances, enriching the cultural life of the community.
The hospital, however, was a constant reminder of the inherent dangers of mining. During the mine’s most productive years, accidents were frequent, claiming an average of three miners per year due to explosions and falls. Ironically, Granite lacked its own cemetery, the rocky terrain proving unsuitable for burials. Consequently, the remains of deceased miners and other residents were transported down the mountain and interred in the Philipsburg Cemetery.
Financially, the mine’s operations began paying dividends to investors in 1885. That same year, a 20-stamp mill was erected, later replaced by a more efficient 80-stamp mill. Between 1885 and 1888, the mine produced a staggering $2.5 million in ore. In 1888, further expansion led to the construction of a new 100-stamp mill on Fred Burr Creek. This facility, named the Rumsey Mill in honor of the president of the Granite Mountain Mining Company between 1884 and 1889, commenced operations in March 1889. It was connected to the mine via an 8,900-foot tramway and to Philipsburg by a 7.7-mile extension of the railroad, further integrating Granite into the regional economy.
Like many other mining camps throughout the American West, Granite suffered a devastating blow when the Sherman Silver Purchase Act was repealed in 1893. This legislative change drastically slashed the price of silver, rendering many mining operations unprofitable. Within a year, Granite‘s population plummeted from approximately 3,200 to a mere 140, signaling the town’s rapid decline.
The Miner’s Union Hall, constructed in 1890 at a cost of $23,000, served as the social nucleus of the bustling mining camp. The second floor housed the main hall, which played host to stage productions, dances, concerts, and various celebrations. Union offices and a library were also located on this floor. The third floor accommodated the lodge hall and meeting room for the miners’ union. The first floor featured a lounge and recreation room for the miners. In the 1890s, Main Street was lined with saloons, rooming houses, and restaurants. Across the street stood the newspaper office, while the gully below harbored Chinatown and the red-light district.
Despite the devastating impact of the silver crash, mining continued on a smaller scale. By 1898, the mines experienced a brief resurgence, producing approximately one million dollars of bullion per year until 1901. Intermittent mining operations persisted until the 1930s. In 1958, new investors explored the possibility of revitalizing the Granite Mine. However, a fire erupted, destroying most of the surface structures and dashing hopes of a full-scale revival.
Mae Werning, the last resident of Granite, remained in the old town long after everyone else had departed. She served as the town’s caretaker for many years and as a water commissioner for Deer Lodge area ranchers. She passed away in 1969 at the age of 75, marking the end of an era.
Today, the old town site is preserved as a Montana State Park. Remnants of the old tramway can still be observed along the road leading to the town. Upon reaching Granite, visitors are greeted by tailings and mine buildings clinging to the hillside.
Although many of the buildings have vanished, a scattering of structures remain standing, albeit in various states of disrepair. These include the Miner’s Union Hall, the stone Superintendent’s home, the tumbled-down hospital, the old bank vault, and a collection of weathered cabins.
Granite is located approximately five miles southeast of Philipsburg. From downtown Philipsburg, turn south at the four-way stop and proceed through the railroad underpass. Take the first left and continue for about one mile. Turn right onto the road marked with a white sign indicating Granite. Keep to the left for approximately four miles to reach the old mining camp. A four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to the rugged terrain.