I took a recent trip through parts of Montana and in my travels, I came upon a few beautifully restored Milwaukee Road depots. It's amazing when one thinks of this line from the midwest building a line all the way to the Pacific. You know they did but yet the markers along the route seem so unexpected.

First stop - the Milwaukee Road depot in Great Falls, MT. This depot is immaculately restored both inside and out. It houses some rather upscale businesses inside. I felt I needed a tie to get in!

Milwaukee Road Depot : Great Falls, Montana

Next stop - the Milwaukee Road depot in Butte, Montana. This depot has also been restored though the interior is now a television studio complete with a news desk and a farm of satellite dishes occupying what was once the stub end terminal tracks in the back. The station was recently asked if they would consider restoring the Milwaukee Road logo assuming it is still under the KXLF station sign and the thought was not out of the question though the expense may be prohibitive. Access to the building is permitted both upstairs and in the tower and I found the staff to be very friendly and accommodating.

Milwaukee Road Depot : Butte, Montana

Last stop - Milwaukee Road #261 complete with her matching Hiawatha consist during a Pete Lerro Photo charter in May of 2008. I wish I had a photo of an electric for ya! Speaking with Steve Sandberg during the SP #4449 charter he said the crew was focused on the upcoming events but talks continue with the Green Bay Museum and he seemed confident that Milwaukee Road #261 will be back in steam again. Asked whether the "second engine" was a rumor, he said the group always has it's eyes open for a second engine but I don't believe it's an active project.

Milwaulkee Road #261 with the Hiawatha (2008)

Hope you enjoyed!

/Mitch