Hesper, Montana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hesper, Montana
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 Hesper, Montana
Location in Montana
Hesper, Montana
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Montana |
| County | Yellowstone |
| Elevation | 3,327 ft (1,014 m) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | N/A |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
| ZIP code |
59106
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| Area code(s) | 406 |
| GNIS feature ID | 772359 |
Hesper is a small, unincorporated community in western Yellowstone County, Montana, United States. It is located northeast of Laurel and west of Billings. An unincorporated community is a place with a shared identity but no official local government like a city or town.
The Story of Hesper
Hesper was established in 1917. It was named after the Hesper Farm, which was founded by Ignatius Daniel O'Donnell. The name "Hesper" comes from "Hesperus," which is another name for the evening star. In old stories, Hesperus was known as the king of the western lands. The name also has connections to a group called the Masons.
Hesper's Early Days
In its busiest time, the train station, or depot, in Hesper was a very important place. It served as a central point for many farms and ranches nearby. Farmers would bring their goods to the depot, and supplies would arrive for the community.
Changes Over Time
However, by the 1940s, Hesper started to become less important. The town began to decline as transportation methods changed. Many of the original buildings were either torn down or left empty.
Today, most of the original town area is no longer used. The community is now home to the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. It is also considered a part of the larger Billings Metro Area.
Education in Hesper
The former Hesper School District is now known as the Elder Grove Elementary School District. This school is still open today. It serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade.
