Do you remember life in Montana before smartphones, the internet, and smart TVs? In many ways, we value keeping life simple here, which is why our state is known as the Last Best Place. Still, these photos from the 1930s put how far we’ve come into perspective.

1. The bar scene looked a bit different in 1939.
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF34-027445)
These folks were enjoying a post-work beer at a bar in Birney.
2. You don't see sheepherders with chuck wagons anymore.
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF34-027261)
This image was captured in 1939 in Madison County.
3. Going to town looked a lot different.
Photogrammar/Russell Lee (LOC Call Number: LC-USF33-011371)
This family was heading into the small town of Antelope.
4. Older siblings helped care for the younger children in the family.
Photogrammar/Russell Lee (LOC Call Number: LC-USF34-030919)
This photo was taken in 1937 in Sheridan.
5. Can you imagine going to a courthouse that looked like this?
Photogrammar/Russell Lee (LOC Call Number: LC-USF34-030966)
As of the late 1930s, this structure served as a justice court and U.S. Commissioners Court in Dagmar.

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6. This group of four cowboys dressed alike outside a Billings barber shop in 1939 is undeniably adorable.
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF33-003092)
We wonder what they were discussing.
7. Just a boy and his dog.
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF33-003272)
Actually, this is a young sugar beet worker and a farm pup hanging out in Treasure.
8. Dinner is served!
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF34-027535)
He clearly doesn't mind being the designated chef at Three Circle roundup.
9. The old Stockman Bar in Miles City is now Hole in the Wall Family Dining.
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF33-003271)
That said, downtown Miles City doesn't look all that different than it did back then.
10. And when was the last time you saw a buggy cruise by in downtown Billings?
Photogrammar/Arthur Rothstein (LOC Call Number: LC-USF33-003091)
We're going to guess it's been awhile.

 

If you’re not a first generation Montanan, you may have seen photos like these in your family albums. Here are a few more vintage photos of Montana that will leave you feeling nostalgic.

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