Cities and Towns in Broadwater County, Montana
Founded in February 9, 1897, Broadwater County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Broadwater County was formed from Jefferson County and Meagher County. The city of Townsend is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Broadwater County has a population of 7,288 and area of 1,192 square miles (3,087 km²).
List of all cities in Broadwater County, MT alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Radersburg, MT | 59641 | 406 |
Toston, MT | 59641 | 406 |
59643 | 406 | |
Townsend, MT | 59644 | 406 |
Winston, MT | 59647 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Broadwater County, Montana
Townsend
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.05 sq mi
- Population: 1,964 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59644
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.3211° N, 111.5186° W
Location and History
Townsend is the county seat of Broadwater County, situated along the banks of the Missouri River near Canyon Ferry Lake. Founded in the late 1800s as a stop along the Northern Pacific Railway, Townsend quickly became a central hub for trade and agriculture in the region. The town was named after Charles Townsend, an early investor in the railroad, and grew steadily as settlers were drawn to the area’s rich farming and ranching potential. The nearby Canyon Ferry Dam, completed in the mid-20th century, created one of Montana’s largest reservoirs and transformed the region into a recreational haven. Today, Townsend balances its historical roots with outdoor tourism, attracting visitors for fishing, boating, and scenic views around the lake and the Missouri River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Townsend is served by Broadwater High School and Townsend K-12 Schools, offering education to local residents. Key landmarks include Canyon Ferry Lake, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping, and the Broadwater County Museum, which provides insights into the town’s pioneering past. The Missouri River flows through the area, offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Additionally, Townsend hosts annual events such as the Broadwater County Fair, where the community celebrates its agricultural heritage with rodeos, parades, and exhibitions.
Winston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not incorporated
- Population: Approximately 150 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59647
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.4328° N, 111.6205° W
Location and History
Winston is a small, unincorporated community located near the eastern edge of Broadwater County. Established in the late 19th century as a mining town, Winston attracted prospectors with the promise of gold and other minerals in the surrounding Elkhorn Mountains. The town’s early economy was fueled by mining, and remnants of old mines and ghost towns can still be seen nearby. Though Winston’s mining boom has long since faded, it remains a quiet residential community with a strong connection to its historic roots. The community’s location near Canyon Ferry Lake and Helena’s nearby amenities makes it a peaceful, scenic area with easy access to outdoor recreation and city conveniences.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Winston falls within the Townsend School District, with students attending schools in Townsend. Local landmarks include the surrounding Elkhorn Mountains, which offer hiking, hunting, and scenic drives. The proximity to Canyon Ferry Lake allows Winston residents and visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, and other water sports. Annual community events are often held in nearby Townsend, where Winston residents participate in county fairs and celebrations, preserving the community spirit and historical ties to mining heritage.
Toston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not incorporated
- Population: Approximately 108 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59643
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.1692° N, 111.4419° W
Location and History
Toston is a small, rural community in Broadwater County, located along the Missouri River and near the Toston Dam. Established as a stop along the Northern Pacific Railway, Toston served as a shipping point for agricultural products and livestock, becoming a support community for area farmers and ranchers. Named after a local settler, the town developed modestly but maintained its role in the region’s agricultural economy. The Toston Dam, built to control the Missouri River’s flow, has created a unique environment for fishing and wildlife watching. Although small, Toston holds historical significance as part of the early trade and transport routes in central Montana, and its residents enjoy a rural, outdoor-focused lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Toston is also served by the Townsend School District, with students attending schools in nearby Townsend. Key landmarks include the Toston Dam, which offers fishing opportunities and attracts local wildlife. The Missouri River, with its scenic views and abundance of fish, is another popular spot for outdoor activities. Annual events in Townsend, such as the Broadwater County Fair, draw Toston residents, who often engage in agricultural and community activities that celebrate their farming heritage. The quiet landscape and historical connection to Montana’s agricultural roots define Toston’s character.