Facts in Brief about Montana

Here are a few facts about Montana that we thought you may enjoy and perhaps use.

Capital: Helena {Since 1875}. Earlier capitals, Bannack {1864 – 1865}; Virginia City {1865 -1875}.

Government: Congress – U.S. Senators, 2; U.S. Representatives, 2. Electoral vote, 4. State Legislature – Senators, 50; representatives, 100. Counties, 56.

Area: 147,138 square miles {including 1,402 square miles of inland water}, fourth in size among the states. Greatest distance: {east –west} 570 miles; {north – south} 315 miles.

Elevation: Highest, Granite Peak in Park County, 12,799 feet above sea level; Lowest, 1,800 feet above sea level, along the Kootenai River in Lincoln County.

Population: 926,865 {2004}.

State Flower: Bitterroot.

Statehood: November 8, 1889, the 41st state.

State Seal: The plow, pick and shovel in Montana soil symbolize the state’s agricultural opportunities and its mineral industries. The Great Falls of the Missouri River and the mountain scenery represent its natural beauty. The state motto appears on a scroll. Adopted in 1889.

State Flag: The state seal is centered in a blue field, with gold fringe on the upper and lower borders. Adopted in 1905.

State Motto: “Oro y Plata” {Gold and Silver}.

State Nickname: “Treasure State”

State Song: “Montana”, Words by Charles C. Cohen; music by Joseph E. Howard.