Cities and Towns in Chouteau County, Montana
Founded in February 2, 1865, Chouteau County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Chouteau County was one of the 9 original counties. The city of Fort Benton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 15, Chouteau County has a population of 5,916 and area of 3,973 square miles (10,290 km²).
List of all cities in Chouteau County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Big Sandy, MT | 59520 | 406 |
| Carter, MT | 59420 | 406 |
| Carter, MT | 59440 | 406 |
| Floweree, MT | 59440 | 406 |
| Fort Benton, MT | 59442 | 406 |
| Geraldine, MT | 59446 | 406 |
| Highwood, MT | 59450 | 406 |
| Loma, MT | 59460 | 406 |
| Shonkin, MT | 59450 | 406 |
| Square Butte, MT | 59446 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Chouteau County, Montana
Fort Benton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.14 sq mi
- Population: 1,442 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59442
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.8203° N, 110.6636° W
Location and History
Fort Benton, the county seat of Chouteau County, is known as the “Birthplace of Montana.” Established in 1846 as a trading post on the Missouri River by the American Fur Company, it is one of the oldest settlements in the state. Fort Benton became a significant transportation hub in the late 19th century, as steamboats traveled up the Missouri River, bringing goods and settlers to the region. This trade made it one of the most important towns in Montana Territory, with Fort Benton playing a central role in the western expansion. The town’s well-preserved historic district, with original buildings from its pioneer days, reflects its rich heritage. Today, Fort Benton attracts history enthusiasts and tourists interested in Montana’s early days, offering museums, scenic river views, and a sense of the Old West.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Benton is served by the Fort Benton School District, including Fort Benton High School. Key landmarks include the Fort Benton Bridge, Montana’s oldest steel bridge, and the Museum of the Upper Missouri, which showcases the town’s fur trading and steamboat history. The Fort Benton Historic District includes the preserved ruins of the original fort, while the nearby Lewis and Clark Memorial honors the expedition’s journey through the area. The annual Summer Celebration event features parades, historical reenactments, and fireworks, celebrating Fort Benton’s historic significance.
Big Sandy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.29 sq mi
- Population: 600 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59520
- Latitude and Longitude: 48.1769° N, 110.1122° W
Location and History
Big Sandy is a small agricultural town located north of Fort Benton in the heart of Montana’s plains. Established in the early 20th century as a stop along the Great Northern Railway, Big Sandy grew as a farming and ranching community, supporting homesteaders drawn by the fertile soil and open range. Wheat farming became central to the local economy, and Big Sandy remains one of Montana’s significant grain-producing regions. The town is also known as the home of U.S. Senator Jon Tester, who grew up on a family farm nearby. Big Sandy’s rural charm and agricultural heritage are reflected in its community gatherings and dedication to preserving its history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Big Sandy is served by Big Sandy Public Schools, including Big Sandy High School. Major landmarks include the Big Sandy Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s railroad and farming history, and the Bear Paw Mountains nearby, providing opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. Big Sandy’s annual community events, like the summer Pioneer Days, celebrate its agricultural roots, featuring parades, rodeos, and social gatherings that bring together residents and visitors to honor the town’s traditions and rural lifestyle.
Geraldine
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.23 sq mi
- Population: 261 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59446
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.6058° N, 110.2672° W
Location and History
Geraldine, a small town located southeast of Fort Benton, was established in 1913 as a station for the Milwaukee Railroad. The town was named after the daughter of railroad executive William G. Rockefeller. Geraldine served as an agricultural hub, supporting local farmers and ranchers in the surrounding area. Its early growth was tied to the railway, which provided transport for grain and livestock. Today, Geraldine maintains its rural character and agricultural roots, with its historic buildings preserved as a reminder of its railroad past. The town’s surrounding farmlands, primarily wheat fields, remain vital to its economy, and the community is known for its friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Geraldine is served by Geraldine Public Schools, including Geraldine High School. Notable landmarks include the Geraldine Milwaukee Depot, a preserved train station that now serves as a local museum, highlighting the town’s railroad history. Square Butte, a prominent geological formation nearby, attracts outdoor enthusiasts and provides scenic views of the surrounding plains. The annual Geraldine Fun Day brings residents together for festivities, games, and celebrations, emphasizing the town’s community spirit and agricultural heritage.
Carter
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not incorporated
- Population: Approximately 58 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59420
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.7111° N, 110.8875° W
Location and History
Carter is a small, unincorporated farming community located northwest of Fort Benton. Established in the early 1900s, Carter grew as a result of the homesteading movement and served as a local agricultural center. The town was named after Thomas H. Carter, a U.S. Senator from Montana who played a key role in promoting settlement in the region. Although Carter remains small, it has retained its rural charm, with its surrounding fields producing wheat and other crops that contribute to the local economy. The town’s residents maintain strong ties to the land and a commitment to preserving the area’s agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carter is served by the Fort Benton School District, with students commuting to nearby Fort Benton for schooling. Major landmarks in the area include the Carter United Methodist Church, which has been a gathering place for the community since its early days. The nearby Teton River provides opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities, and the surrounding fields and prairies offer scenic views typical of Montana’s rural landscapes. Community events in nearby towns, such as Fort Benton’s Summer Celebration, provide Carter residents with social gatherings and opportunities to celebrate their shared history.
Highwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not incorporated
- Population: Approximately 176 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59450
- Latitude and Longitude: 47.5856° N, 110.7750° W
Location and History
Highwood is a rural community located near the Highwood Mountains, southeast of Fort Benton. Established in the early 20th century, Highwood grew as a farming and ranching center, with homesteaders drawn to the fertile land and scenic views of the nearby mountains. The Highwood Mountains, visible from much of the area, add to the region’s beauty and provide a striking backdrop to the town. Although small, Highwood remains active in Montana’s agricultural industry, with wheat and cattle ranching as primary economic activities. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, rural lifestyle, and connection to the natural beauty of the Highwood Mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Highwood is served by Highwood Public Schools, including Highwood High School. Notable landmarks include the Highwood Mountains, which offer hiking, hunting, and camping opportunities. The Highwood Community Center acts as a gathering place for residents and hosts events such as the Highwood Mountain Rendezvous, where locals celebrate their rural heritage with music, games, and social gatherings. The Highwood Creek, flowing through the area, provides fishing and scenic picnic spots, adding to the town’s quiet charm and appeal as a rural retreat.
