Our Story.
Railroads created history...
The Harlowton, Milwaukee Depot Museum is in the heart of Harlowton on 307 Central Ave South. Converted from the long-abandoned train station that was the heartbeat of the town, the museum now stands as the gateway to Harlowton’s past, present, and very existence. The construction of what is now modern-day Harlowton started in 1900. However, in 1907, a major portion of the town caught fire, destroying 24 businesses. But, the residents of Harlowton persevered. The town inhabitants rebuilt, with the train station as the center of the new construction, setting the blueprint for what is now modern-day Harlowton. With the new town constructed, the railroad brought in many new settlers. Between 1910 and 1920, the population nearly doubled from nearly 770 to 1,856 (according to U. S. Census figures).
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While the Great Depression affected the population in the following decade, the following decades would see the population climb back for the next 20 years. The closing of passenger lines in the 1970’s saw a steady drop in the population until present-day, where it is slightly below 1,000 residents. The population drop proved how important the Milwaukee Railroad was during the 20th century and the sustainability of a town that was built around the railroad.
Today, visitors can see the history of the museum with displays of the history of the town, the train line, and several model trains. In the museum, you’ll find out why the Milwaukee Railroad was among the first railroads converted from steam engines to an electric engine system. You’ll also find out the fate of the remaining railcars from the train lines after the passenger rail service ended in the 1970s.
Don't Wait
VISIT TODAY
The Harlowton Milwaukee Depot Museum is open 4 days a week!
Memorial Day to Labor Day on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We are open from 11 AM to 4 PM each of those days.
We provide special tours of the museum during non-business hours by special arrangement. Simply call or email us to make arrangements.
Contact Us With Questions
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Donations
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Our Exhibits
The museum houses a large HO scale collection of Milwaukee Road models and is among one of the most popular museums in Montana. See what makes us so great