Helena: Difference between revisions
Truthseeker (talk | contribs) Created page with "'''Helena''' is the capital of Montana and a historic city shaped by the 19th-century Gold Rush. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it blends government, outdoor adventure, and preserved Western heritage. == Overview == * '''Population''': ~33,000 (about 80,000 in the metro area) * '''Founded''': 1864 as a gold camp during the Montana Gold Rush * '''Nickname''': The Queen City of the Rockies * '''Geography''': Located in west-central Montana near the Missouri River he..." |
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{{Infobox settlement | |||
| name = Helena | |||
| official_name = City of Helena | |||
| settlement_type = Capital city | |||
| image_skyline = | |||
| image_caption = Downtown Helena with Mount Helena in the background | |||
| subdivision_name1 = Montana | |||
| subdivision_name = United States | |||
| established_date = 1864 | |||
| population_total = 33,000 | |||
| area_total_km2 = 43 | |||
| timezone = Mountain (MST/MDT) | |||
| postal_code = 59601–59626 | |||
| area_code = 406 | |||
}} | |||
'''Helena''' is the capital of [[Montana]] and a historic city shaped by the 19th-century Gold Rush. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it blends government, outdoor adventure, and preserved Western heritage. | '''Helena''' is the capital of [[Montana]] and a historic city shaped by the 19th-century Gold Rush. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it blends government, outdoor adventure, and preserved Western heritage. | ||
Latest revision as of 23:22, 6 June 2025
| Official name | City of Helena |
| Type | Capital city |
| Downtown Helena with Mount Helena in the background | |
| State | Montana |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1864 |
| Population | 33,000 |
| Area (km²) | 43 |
| Time zone | Mountain (MST/MDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 59601–59626 |
| Area code(s) | 406 |
Helena is the capital of Montana and a historic city shaped by the 19th-century Gold Rush. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, it blends government, outdoor adventure, and preserved Western heritage.
Overview
- Population: ~33,000 (about 80,000 in the metro area)
- Founded: 1864 as a gold camp during the Montana Gold Rush
- Nickname: The Queen City of the Rockies
- Geography: Located in west-central Montana near the Missouri River headwaters
Landmarks and Attractions
- Montana State Capitol – known for its copper dome and murals
- Cathedral of St. Helena – Gothic-style Catholic cathedral
- Montana Historical Society Museum
- Reeder’s Alley – preserved 1800s miners’ dwellings
- Mount Helena City Park – with panoramic trails and viewpoints
Economy
Helena’s economy revolves around:
- State government and public services
- Tourism and outdoor recreation
- Healthcare and education
- Mining and energy in surrounding areas
Culture and Lifestyle
- Western charm with a walkable downtown full of historical buildings
- Active community focused on hiking, biking, and skiing
- Hosts Helena Symphony, Last Chance Stampede, and local festivals
- Popular destination for artists and remote workers seeking nature
Education and Research
- Carroll College – private Catholic liberal arts college
- Helena College – part of the Montana University System
- Focus on liberal arts, nursing, and environmental sciences
Transportation
- Helena Regional Airport (HLN)
- Amtrak nearby (in towns like East Glacier Park)
- Access via I-15 and scenic mountain roads
Fun Facts
- In the 1880s, Helena had more millionaires per capita than any other U.S. city
- The city's name was chosen by gold miners, despite controversy over pronunciation
- The “Last Chance Gulch” downtown area was literally a last-ditch mining effort — and it paid off big