Museum & Cultural Center
The Granite County Museum and Cultural Center is located in the former Courtney Hotel on South Sansome Street in Philipsburg. The museum was founded in 1991, thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers and the generous donations of several people. The main floor of the building was completely remodeled to provide museum display space, a community center, and a gift shop. The museum is currently operated by volunteers who donate time to build the displays, give tours of the exhibits, and greet guests. The price of admission is $3.00 for adults and is free for children under the age of 12.
The main floor of the museum allows visitors to view a continuously revolving display of historical exhibits, including photos, clothing, and other belongings of former residents of Granite County. Downstairs there is a mural of a mining community, complete with an assay office, a bank with a coin collection found beneath a miner's cabin, and a reconstructed miner's cabin.
Hard Rock Mining Exhibit
In the 1860's, Granite County was home to one of the richest silver strikes in the country. In 1996, a replica of an underground silver mine was built in the museum. The simulated mine shaft and drift is realistic and includes a compressor, a hoist house, several ore cars, and various other pieces of mining equipment. The exhibit is intended to give the visitor a glimpse into the daily routine of a turn-of-the-century underground miner in Granite County. In addition to the shaft, the exhibit allows a look inside a miner's cabin to see how the early prospectors lived, and it allows an observation of a fire assay lab where ore samples were analyzed and processed to determine the mineral and precious metal content.
A new attraction is coming to the area. Located in Anaconda, Montana the "Copper King Express" is a 26-mile excursion train that operates through many of the area's historic points of interest and also through Durant Canyon. The world's largest smokestack can be seen from 20 miles away. There is also a museum located at 300 West Commercial Avenue in Anaconda. Tickets can be purchased at: The Copper King Express.
Guided tours can be arranged.
Summer Hours
10:00 am -- 5:00 pm Daily
For Additional Information please call: (406) 859-3020
Winter Hours
By Appointment Only
To set up a group tour please call: (406) 859-3020
