Helena history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Helena began on 30 October 1864, when a group of four prospectors, known as the "Four Georgians", discovered gold in a gorge which they named "Last Chance" (Last Chance Gulch). This discovery occurred after the prospectors had almost despaired of finding the precious metal in this region.

Initially, the settlement was named "Crabtown", but the residents soon decided to change it to something more dignified. At a general meeting, the name Helena was chosen, presumably in honour of a town in Minnesota, although there are versions suggesting a connection to the ancient Helen of Troy.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of the temporary camp into an important administrative centre was driven by a combination of geographical and political reasons:

• Resource Base: Rich deposits of placer gold became the economic engine that attracted thousands of settlers and investors.
• Political Status: Thanks to its central location and economic influence, in 1875 Helena became the capital of the Montana Territory, replacing Virginia City. This status was retained even after Montana became a state in 1889.
• Transport and Trade: The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1883 definitively secured the city's role as the main trading hub of the region, connecting it with the east and west of the country.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

By the end of the 19th century, Helena represented a unique economic phenomenon. It is believed that in 1888 the city held the first place in the world for the number of millionaires per capita. This wealth formed a distinct cultural landscape:

• Architectural Heritage: Wealthy residents erected luxurious mansions in the Victorian style, many of which still adorn the city's historic district.
• Developed Infrastructure: Huge revenues from gold mining allowed the city to quickly acquire banks, theatres, libraries, and other attributes of civilised living, which were uncharacteristic for many frontier towns of that time.

Key Milestones in Helena's History

• 1864 — A group of prospectors, known as the "Four Georgians", discovers gold in "Last Chance Gulch", kickstarting the settlement's development.
• 1875 — Helena is officially proclaimed the capital of the Montana Territory, taking over powers from Virginia City.
• 1883 — The completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad tracks connects the city with major economic centres of the country.
• 1889 — Montana joins the Union as the 41st state, and Helena retains its status as the administrative centre.
• 1894 — In a general vote, state residents choose Helena as the permanent capital, preferring it over the city of Anaconda.
• 1902 — The grand opening of the Montana State Capitol, built of sandstone and granite, takes place.
• 1924 — The Cathedral of Saint Helena is consecrated, becoming one of the city's main architectural landmarks.
• 1935 — A series of strong earthquakes causes significant damage to historic buildings, requiring large-scale restoration works.
• 1949 — A tragic fire occurs in Mann Gulch near the city, significantly influencing forest fire fighting methods in the USA.
• 1970s — Reconstruction of the city centre is carried out, transforming the historic street into a pedestrian zone.
• 2002 — A large-scale restoration of the Capitol building is completed, timed to coincide with its centenary.
• 2017 — The election of Wilmot Collins as mayor becomes a landmark event in the state's modern political history.

Development Stages and Key Transformations

The history of Helena is a journey from a spontaneous tent camp to a respectable administrative centre. Below are the key moments that defined the modern appearance and economy of the city:

• Transformation from "Gold Camp" to Financial Hub

  Unlike many ghost towns, Helena managed to convert mined gold into a sustainable financial system. By the end of the 19th century, the city became the banking centre of the region, which allowed it to maintain economic stability even after the depletion of major deposits.

• Victory in the "Battle for the Capital" (1894)

  The decisive vote, in which Helena defeated the city of Anaconda, determined the city's fate as an administrative rather than an industrial centre. This event saved Helena from heavy dependence on copper magnates and formed a class of civil servants as the population base.

• Architectural Monumentalisation (Early 20th Century)

  The construction of the State Capitol and the Cathedral of Saint Helena marked the transition from temporary wooden structures to monumental architecture. These projects not only changed the city's skyline but also became symbols of cultural maturity and confidence in the future.

• Post-Seismic Reconstruction (After 1935)

  A series of destructive earthquakes forced the city to update its housing stock and public buildings. Restoration works led to the introduction of new construction standards and the appearance of Art Deco objects mixed with Victorian heritage.

• Urban Revitalisation of the Centre (1970s)

  As part of the urban renewal programme, the historic "Last Chance Gulch" was transformed into a pedestrian shopping zone. This decision allowed the preservation of the unique winding layout of the main street, adapting it for tourism and modern commerce.

Urban Development and Layout

The urban structure of Helena is unique in that it was formed not according to a pre-approved master plan, but spontaneously, following the geography of gold mining. The city's main historic street, Last Chance Gulch, follows the winding bed of the creek where prospectors panned for gold. This gives the historic centre an irregular, picturesque character that contrasts sharply with the rectangular street grid (grid system) typical of later districts and most American cities.

Architectural Styles and Historical Eras

Helena's appearance reflects its transformation from a wealthy prospectors' camp to the state's political centre. The city's architectural heritage can be divided into several key periods:

• Victorian Era (1880–1890s): The period of highest economic prosperity, when a record number of millionaires lived in the city.
  • Styles: Queen Anne, Italianate, Richardsonian Romanesque.
  • Features: Use of local brick and stone, complex decorative elements, turrets, and stained glass. A prime example is the Mansion District on the west side.
• Era of Civic Monumentalism (1900–1920s): Assertion of capital status through large-scale public projects.
  • Styles: Neoclassicism (American Renaissance), Gothic Revival.
  • Features: A striving for grandeur and symmetry, use of granite and sandstone, imitation of European models.
• Reconstruction and Art Deco Period (After 1935): Restoration of the city after a series of destructive earthquakes.
  • Styles: Art Deco, PWA Moderne, Moorish Revival.
  • Features: Geometric forms, functionality, reinforced structures for seismic resistance.

Iconic Buildings and Structures

Helena's architectural appearance is defined by several landmarks, each representing its own era and style:

• Montana State Capitol:

  Built in the style of Neoclassicism (Greek Revival). The building is crowned with a copper dome, and massive columns and a symmetrical façade symbolise the stability of state power.

• Cathedral of Saint Helena:

  An outstanding example of Gothic Revival, inspired by the Votive Church in Vienna. The building is characterised by soaring spires, pointed arches, and rich stained glass windows, dominating the cityscape.

• Helena Civic Centre:

  A unique structure in Moorish style (Moorish Revival). Originally built as a Masonic temple (Algeria Shrine Temple), the building stands out with its huge minaret and oriental decor, which is a rarity for the Rocky Mountain region.

• Reeder's Alley:

  The oldest surviving residential quarter, representing the vernacular architecture of the early period. Small brick and stone houses built for miners demonstrate the simple and utilitarian style of the 1870s.

Stars of Cinema and Art

Helena became the birthplace of several world-famous cultural figures whose names are forever inscribed in the history of American art.

• Gary Cooper — Actor, Western icon
  A legend of Hollywood's "Golden Age" and winner of two Academy Awards for Best Actor. Cooper was born in Helena and spent his childhood on a ranch near the city. His restrained acting style and image of a noble hero were largely formed under the influence of the rugged aesthetics of Montana.
• Myrna Loy — Film Actress
  One of the most popular actresses of the 1930s, who received the title "Queen of Hollywood". A native of Helena, she became famous for her role as Nora Charles in the "Thin Man" film series. The house where she spent her early years has been preserved in the city centre, and a local performing arts hall is named in her honour.
• Colin Meloy — Musician and Writer
  Frontman and songwriter of the renowned indie-folk group The Decemberists. Meloy was born and raised in Helena, and the city's atmosphere is often reflected in his work. He is also known as the author of the "Wildwood Chronicles" series of children's adventure books.

Historical and Political Figures

Helena's development as a capital and economic centre is linked to the names of influential politicians and entrepreneurs.

• Samuel T. Hauser — Governor and Tycoon
  A key figure in Montana's early history. Hauser was the first territorial governor to reside directly within the territory, and also founded the first bank in Helena. He played a decisive role in developing the mining industry and attracting investment to the region.
• Charles Broadwater — Entrepreneur and Developer
  An influential businessman of the late 19th century, whose name is associated with the luxury of that era. He built the legendary Broadwater Hotel and Natatorium — a huge indoor pool with hot springs, which was one of the West's main attractions until its demolition.
• Max Baucus — Statesman and Diplomat
  A native of Helena who became the longest-serving US Senator in Montana's history (from 1978 to 2014). He later served as the US Ambassador to China. His political career had a significant impact on the country's legislation.