History

Five miles from Jardine is Gardiner, the gateway to Yellowstone's North Entrance. Yellowstone National Park dates from March 1, 1872, signed into law by President Grant. On April 24, 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt dedicated the Arch. Gardiner is said to have come into existence in the spring of 1880.

Gold was discovered in Jardine along Bear Creek by 'Uncle' Joe Brown and two other prospectors in 1866. The world's largest and most powerful hydraulic apparatus was developed at Bear Gulch in 1884. In 1946, Jardine produced 9,822 fine ounces of gold, which was more than any area of Montana.

Two cabins and a log cellar built in the 1800's still stand on the Bear Creek Hideaway property, where miners lived out their gold-rush dreams. The Welcome house, built in 1905, still stands today, and was the home of a local hotelier. Although the mine is closed today, history buffs will enjoy exploring all around the Bear Creek Hideaway area.

Our neighborly miners, Randy Wegner, Lucky McPherson and Bill Marchington help out with Hideaway projects including keeping our roads clear for the winter.