Armstead, Montana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Armstead
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 Armstead
Location in Montana
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| Country | United States |
| State | Montana |
| County | Beaverhead |
| Established | 1907 |
| Abandoned | 1962 |
| Named for | Harry Armstead |
| Elevation | 5,545 ft (1,690 m) |
Armstead was a small community in Beaverhead County, Montana, United States. It was located about 21 miles (34 km) south of Dillon, the county seat. The town was named after a miner called Harry Armstead.
Armstead sat in a narrow valley next to the Beaverhead River. It was also near where Horse Prairie Creek flows into the river. This location was important because it was a stop on the Union Pacific Railroad line. This railway connected Idaho Falls, Idaho to Butte, Montana. Armstead even had its own post office from 1907 until 1962.
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What Was Armstead?
Armstead was a small town that existed for about 55 years. It was founded in 1907. People lived and worked there, often connected to the railroad.
A Railroad Hub
Armstead is best known for its connection to the Gilmore and Pittsburgh Railroad. This railway line ran from Armstead all the way to Salmon, Idaho. Armstead was the main office and the eastern end of this important railway. The Gilmore and Pittsburgh Railroad operated between 1910 and 1939.
History and the Lewis and Clark Expedition
Long before Armstead was built, the famous Lewis and Clark expedition passed through this area. They traveled past the future site of Armstead in 1805. This was during their journey westward across North America.
Why Did Armstead Disappear?
Armstead no longer exists today because of a big construction project. Between 1961 and 1964, the Clark Canyon Dam was built. This dam created a large lake called a reservoir. The reservoir completely covered the area where Armstead used to be.
When the decision was made to build the dam, Armstead was still an active community. Because of this, some people don't think of Armstead as a true ghost town. A ghost town is usually a place that people left because of hard times. Armstead was still alive when it was chosen to be submerged.
When the water level in the reservoir is very low, you can still see parts of the old town. You might spot pieces of the old highway and railroad tracks. You can even see some building foundations that once belonged to Armstead.
