Black Pine Mining District, Montana

History

Three communities were located in the Black Pine Mining District: Black Pine, Middle Town and Combination. The peak population was 240. In 1889, a forest fire burned the towers of the district and some of the head frames. The operation was rebuilt and operating again by 1891. However, the falling silver prices in 1897 forced the closing of the mill and mines. The Black Pine Mining District was again ravaged by fire in the 1988 Combination Fire.

Directions

Go from Philipsburg toward Drummond on Montana Highway 1 for two miles. A highway sign reads Black Pine Road. Turn left on this road and continue for eight miles to top of the hill. Cross the cattle guard and continue straight ahead on Black Pine Road. Continue another two miles to the top of the ridge. The Black Pine community was located where the road splits in four directions. Take the left road where you will see the head frames of the Harper Shaft near the road on the left hand side. Continue downhill and straight ahead; only a short distance is the head frame of the Lewis Shaft. Continue on the road downhill. Middle Town was located about one-half mile down the grade and Combination was located on the bottom on Lower Willow Creek itself. Here one can see the old remains of the mill, foundations of dwellings, offices, and mine buildings. The tailings pond (settling pond) can also be observed in a flat area near Willow Creek.

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