Butte, America, has long held the reputation as the Rock of Gibraltar of organized labor in the West. In this presentation, MHS senior archivist Rich Aarstad discusses the rise of labor unions in the Mining City and the progressive legislation passed as a result of their political strength, followed by the near extinction of unions in Montana during World War I. (Presence of the Past Program Series, Feb. 19, 2015)

A study of downtown Laurel's architectural patterns visually documents its evolution.

A study of downtown Laurel's architectural patterns visually documents its evolution.

A study of downtown Laurel's architectural patterns visually documents its evolution.

This small island is the last remaining symbol of a once bustling community that now lies under water.

This small island is the last remaining symbol of a once bustling community that now lies under water.

This small island is the last remaining symbol of a once bustling community that now lies under water.

This small island is the last remaining symbol of a once bustling community that now lies under water.

A study of downtown Laurel's architectural patterns visually documents its evolution.

Butte, America, has long held the reputation as the Rock of Gibraltar of organized labor in the West. In this presentation, MHS senior archivist Rich Aarstad discusses the rise of labor unions in the Mining City and the progressive legislation passed as a result of their political strength, followed by the near extinction of unions in Montana during World War I. (Presence of the Past Program Series, Feb. 19, 2015)