Cities and Towns in Petroleum County, Montana

Founded in November 24, 1924, Petroleum County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Petroleum County was formed from Fergus County. The city of Winnett is the county seat. With FIPS code of 69, Petroleum County has a population of 519 and area of 1,654 square miles (4,284 km²).

List of all cities in Petroleum County, MT alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Cat Creek, MT 59087 406
Grass Range, MT 59084 406
Teigen, MT 59084 406
Winnett, MT 59084 406
Winnett, MT 59087 406

Major Cities and Towns in Petroleum County, Montana

Winnett

Location and History

Winnett is the county seat of Petroleum County, located in central Montana, approximately 70 miles southeast of Lewistown. The town was founded in the early 20th century, and it was incorporated in 1911. It was named after the Winnett family, early settlers in the area who were involved in ranching and land development. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s helped to establish Winnett as a trading and service center for the surrounding agricultural community. Agriculture, particularly wheat and barley farming, has long been the backbone of the local economy, and the surrounding prairie landscape is well-suited for cattle ranching. The discovery of oil in the region in the mid-20th century led to a brief oil boom, which helped shape the town’s economic development. Today, Winnett remains a small, rural community with a focus on agriculture, energy production, and the oil industry. The town’s population has remained relatively stable, and it continues to serve as a hub for surrounding farmers, ranchers, and energy workers.

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.39 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 207
  • Zip Codes: 59087
  • Latitude: 47.0624° N
  • Longitude: 109.5663° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Winnett is served by the Winnett School District, which includes Winnett High School and Winnett Elementary School. The district offers a strong educational program that caters to the rural community, with students participating in a variety of extracurricular activities including sports, music, and arts programs. The town of Winnett is home to a few notable landmarks that celebrate its history and culture. The Petroleum County Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s rich history, including exhibits on local oil production, the history of the railroad, and the area’s agricultural development. Winnett is also known for its proximity to the Lone Tree Hill, a prominent geographical feature offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the rolling plains and distant mountain ranges. Outdoor enthusiasts in the region can also enjoy recreational activities like hunting, fishing, and hiking. The town has a number of local events throughout the year, such as the Petroleum County Fair, which brings together the community for agricultural showcases, rodeos, and other local celebrations.