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Carter County - County Hot Seat

Background Info / Historical Story

“The area of Carter County was originally in Big Horn County, then Custer County, followed by Fallon County in 1913. In 1914, the city of Baker became the seat of Fallon County, prompting State Senator John Oliver of Ekalaka to work a bill through the legislature that would make Ekalaka the seat of a new county. The Montana House chose the name “Carter” for Thomas Carter, a former U.S. Senator who had been the territorial delegate for Montana to the federal government in Washington D. C. Carter County was created on February 22, 1917. Since the county was formed, the population has ranged from 2,972 in 1920 to a high of 4,136 in 1930 and is now 1,428. “- Sabre Moore

“[Bob Burch] had a canvas summer shelter over the spring wagon with a top for shade, and side curtains that could be rolled up in nice weather or let side down when needed. In the winter he used lap robes, heated rocks, or charcoal burning foot warmers to try to keep warm. He often had passengers. Everyone along the route knew the mail hack by sight. He had signs painted on the side curtains. (At the time they were trying to get Fallon County divided from Custer County, he had "Vote for County Division" painted on the side of the wagon. He said that was what the people wanted. Custer County was such a large county, it was too far to Miles City, the county seat. They wanted it closer home.)” - Excerpt from Volume 1 Shifting Scenes

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