The old power plant
Posted by Berta (+32) one year ago
I am wondering if anyone can tell me anything about the old MDU/Montana Power Plant (?) that was at the corner of Bridge and 9th, between Bridge and the railroad tracks, and had a big smokestack next to it. It was there in the 40s-70s or later, but I do not have exact dates. Any information, or source for information, would be appreciated. Thank you.
permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+1
moderator
founder
Posted by David Schott (+18539) one year ago
Post card photo originally posted by Hal Neumann:

permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+1
Posted by Wil Nelson (+78) one year ago
We toured the old power plant while in CCHS in the very late 50's or early 60's. At that time they informed us that the plant was capable of powering about ½ of the city. By 1965 they had installed a gas turbine generator east of town. As to the date Montana Dakota Utilities demolished plant I do not recall.
permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+3
founder
supporter
sponsor
Posted by Hal Neumann (+10358) one year ago


permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+3
moderator
founder
Posted by David Schott (+18539) 4 months ago
The topic of the MDU smokestack has come up on these forums a number of times and it was often wondered just exactly when the smokestack was taken down.

From the October 13, 2022, Miles City Star Stardust column:

50 YEARS AGO (1972)

Workmen taking down the
Montana Dakota Utilities
Company chimney in the 800
block on Bridge Street are
making progress. After starting
work on Sept. 11, the
four-man crew is removing
about six feet a day.

ETA: The stack was 217 feet tall according to the Sanborn Fire Map that Hal posted above.

[Edited by David Schott (1/25/2023 6:59:37 PM)]
permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+1
newbie
Posted by hlandy54 (+12) 4 months ago
My Grandpa, Henry Anderson, worked at the plant in the 60's and 70's that I know of. I visited it many times when he was working there. I was even able to blow the 10 pm whistle on some evenings. Lots of great memories visiting him and my Grandma in Miles City.
permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+3
Posted by Wil Nelson (+78) 2 months ago
I believe it was replaced by a gas turbine unit east of town in the early to mid 60's.
permalink   ·  vote tally
Top
+1