Learn About Ismay, Montana

Ismay Overview

City History

• Ismay is a small town located in Custer County, Montana, United States. It was founded in 1902 as a station on the Milwaukee Road railway line.
• The town was originally named Burt, after a Milwaukee Road employee, but was later changed to Ismay in honor of C. F. Ismay, an official of the railroad company.
• Throughout its history, Ismay has been primarily an agricultural community, with ranching and farming being the main industries in the area.

Interesting Facts

• Ismay gained national attention in 2006 when the town briefly changed its name to "Joe, Montana" in honor of NFL quarterback Joe Montana.
• The town is home to the "World Famous" Cow Chip Throwing Contest, an annual event where participants compete to see who can throw a dried cow chip the farthest.

Interesting People

• One of the most famous residents of Ismay is Dan Mortensen, a professional rodeo cowboy who has won multiple world championships in bull riding.
• Another notable figure from Ismay is Evelyn Cameron, a photographer known for her images of early 20th-century Montana ranch life.

Top Attractions in Ismay

• The Ismay Community Hall, a historic building that hosts various events and gatherings throughout the year.
• The Ismay Bar and Grill, a local favorite for dining and socializing.

Top Attractions Nearby

• The Custer Battlefield Museum, located in nearby Garryowen, which showcases the history of the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
• The Pompeys Pillar National Monument, a rock formation featuring Native American petroglyphs and the signature of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Population History

• According to the latest census data, Ismay has a population of around 20 residents.
• The town has experienced a slight decline in population in recent years, as young people have moved away in search of better job opportunities.

Geography

• Ismay is located in eastern Montana, surrounded by vast prairies and rolling hills.
• The town is situated along Highway 12, which runs east-west through the state.

Economy

• Agriculture is the main economic driver in Ismay, with ranching and farming being the primary sources of income for residents.
• The town also relies on tourism to a certain extent, with visitors coming to participate in events like the Cow Chip Throwing Contest.

Culture

• Ismay has a strong sense of community, with residents coming together for events like town picnics, parades, and holiday celebrations.
• The town also has a rich cowboy culture, with many residents participating in rodeos and other western-themed activities.

Notable Landmarks

• The Ismay Cemetery, a historic burial ground that dates back to the town's founding in the early 20th century.
• The Ismay School, a one-room schoolhouse that has been in operation since the early days of the town.

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