Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town
Perched at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet on the slopes of Cable Mountain, and overlooking the majestic, snow-capped peaks of Montana’s Continental Divide, lie the scattered remnants of what was once a bustling and promising mining camp: Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town. Today, the weathered buildings and silent landscape speak volumes about a bygone era, a time when the allure of precious metals drew fortune seekers to the rugged terrain of the American West.
The story of Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town begins with the discovery of gold in 1866. This initial discovery sparked interest, but it would take several years for serious mining operations to commence. It wasn’t until the early 1870s that the Southern Cross Mine, the namesake of the town, began its development, setting the stage for the community that would grow around it.
The mining camp, as was customary, adopted the name of its most significant lode, the Southern Cross. However, the area was not solely dependent on a single claim. Several other mines, each with its own story and promise, contributed to the region’s mining output. These included the Oro Fino, Orphan Boy, and the combined Holdfast-Short Shift-Golden Wedge Mines. These mines, while perhaps not as prominent as the Southern Cross, played a vital role in the economic landscape of the area. Initially, the extracted ores faced a logistical challenge. They had to be hauled by wagon to Anaconda, a more established smelting center, for processing. This laborious process continued until 1907 when a significant development occurred: a modern mill was constructed within the mining camp itself. This mill significantly improved efficiency and reduced transportation costs, further boosting the mining operations at Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town.
A pivotal moment in the history of Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town arrived in 1910 when the Southern Cross Mine was acquired by the Anaconda Copper Mining Company, a dominant force in the Montana mining industry. This acquisition ushered in a period of extensive development. Recognizing the mine’s potential, the Anaconda Copper Mining Company invested heavily in infrastructure improvements. One of the most significant projects was the construction of a spur railroad line connecting the mine to Brown’s Siding. This railway line facilitated the transportation of ore and supplies, streamlining operations and further solidifying the mine’s position.
The most intensive period of hard rock mining occurred from the 1870s through 1910, but mining activities continued periodically for almost 80 years. However, the Anaconda Copper Mining Company eventually ceased operations at the Southern Cross Mine in 1919. This marked a turning point for the community, as the primary economic engine began to wind down. During its peak, the mining camp thrived, boasting a population of around 500 residents. The community featured a range of essential and recreational facilities, including boarding houses for miners, general stores catering to daily needs, saunas for relaxation and hygiene, a dance hall for entertainment, a post office for communication, and a school for educating the children of the community. The mining district generated a substantial amount of wealth, with an estimated production value exceeding five million dollars in gold, silver, and copper. This output reflects the richness of the ore deposits and the hard work of the miners who toiled in the depths of the earth.
Today, a visit to Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town offers a glimpse into its rich past. While time and the elements have taken their toll, several mining buildings and a few old cabins still stand, serving as silent witnesses to the town’s vibrant history. During a visit in 2008, the landscape was in a state of flux, with bulldozers and heavy equipment actively engaged in redevelopment efforts at the site. The future of Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town remains uncertain, but the echoes of its mining past continue to resonate.
Reaching Southern Cross requires a detour from Montana Highway 1, also known as the Pintler Scenic Route. Look for the turnoff to the Discovery Basin Ski Area in Georgetown. The road continues for approximately one mile beyond Georgetown until it reaches a three-way split. The middle road, aptly named Southern Cross Road, leads directly to the old townsite of Southern Cross. Travelers should be prepared for a journey into a rugged and remote area, where the remnants of a bygone era await exploration. The journey to Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town is a journey back in time, offering a unique perspective on the history of mining and the American West.
The landscape surrounding Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town is as captivating as its history. The towering peaks of the Continental Divide provide a stunning backdrop, reminding visitors of the challenges and rewards that drew people to this remote location. The air is crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and sagebrush. Exploring the remaining structures requires caution, as many are unstable and potentially hazardous. However, the sense of stepping back in time is palpable, allowing visitors to imagine the bustling activity that once filled these now-silent streets.
The legacy of Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town extends beyond its physical remnants. It serves as a reminder of the vital role that mining played in the development of Montana and the American West. The stories of the miners, their families, and the entrepreneurs who built this community are interwoven into the fabric of the state’s history. The town’s rise and fall reflect the boom-and-bust cycles that characterized many mining communities during this era.
While the future of Southern Cross, Montana Ghost Town remains uncertain, its past is firmly etched in the landscape. Whether preserved as a historical site, redeveloped for modern purposes, or left to slowly fade into the wilderness, the town’s story will continue to resonate with those who seek to understand the history of the American West. A visit to this remote location is a journey into a time when dreams of fortune drew people to the rugged mountains of Montana, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and intrigue.