Cities and Towns in Toole County, Montana
Founded in May 7, 1914, Toole County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Toole County was formed from Hill County and Teton County. The city of Shelby is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Toole County has a population of 5,011 and area of 1,911 square miles (4,949 km²).
List of all cities in Toole County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ethridge, MT | 59435 | 406 |
| Ferdig, MT | 59466 | 406 |
| Galata, MT | 59444 | 406 |
| Kevin, MT | 59454 | 406 |
| Lothair, MT | 59474 | 406 |
| Oilmont, MT | 59466 | 406 |
| Shelby, MT | 59474 | 406 |
| Sunburst, MT | 59482 | 406 |
| Sweet Grass, MT | 59484 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Toole County, Montana
Shelby
Location and History
Shelby is the county seat of Toole County and one of the largest cities in northwestern Montana. Located along the Marias River, it lies just a few miles south of the Canadian border and about 60 miles west of the Marias Pass, the lowest point in the Rocky Mountains. Shelby was founded in the early 1890s when the Great Northern Railway was established through the area. The town was named after Peter O. Shelby, a railroad executive who played a pivotal role in developing the town. The arrival of the railroad transformed Shelby into a regional transportation hub, stimulating its growth and turning it into a key agricultural center. In the early 20th century, Shelby’s economy was based on farming, with wheat, barley, and livestock being the primary agricultural products. Over time, the town expanded its industries to include oil, natural gas, and the production of various agricultural equipment. Today, Shelby remains an important regional center for trade and commerce in northwestern Montana, known for its agricultural output and proximity to Canadian trade routes.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.24 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 3,200
- Zip Codes: 59474
- Latitude: 48.5137° N
- Longitude: 111.8575° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shelby is home to the Shelby Public Schools District, which includes Shelby High School and several elementary schools. The district provides a wide array of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports teams. Shelby High School is known for its competitive athletics and academic achievements. The town is also served by the Marias Medical Center, providing healthcare services to the local community. One of Shelby’s key landmarks is the Liberty Theatre, a historic movie theater that has been in operation for decades, offering a glimpse into the town’s cultural history. The Toole County Courthouse is another prominent landmark, housing the county’s government offices and reflecting the town’s historic architecture. Shelby is also home to the Marias River Walk, a scenic park that runs along the river and provides opportunities for walking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Blaine County Fairgrounds hosts community events like rodeos and county fairs, which are a significant part of Shelby’s cultural and social life.
Sunburst
Location and History
Sunburst is a small town located in the northern part of Toole County, near the Canadian border. The town was established in the early 1900s as part of the expansion of the railroad and the development of the surrounding area’s agricultural industry. Sunburst was originally a hub for the railroad, providing a stop for trains traveling between the United States and Canada. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly wheat and barley farming, as well as ranching. As transportation systems improved and farming methods evolved, Sunburst’s population began to decline, and the town became more of a rural agricultural center. Today, Sunburst remains a quiet, small town with a focus on farming and ranching. Despite its small size, the town has maintained its historical charm, with many of its early buildings still standing. Sunburst’s proximity to the Canadian border gives it a unique position as part of Montana’s trade network with Canada, and the town’s economy continues to be supported by agriculture, as well as some energy-related industries.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 217
- Zip Codes: 59482
- Latitude: 48.7381° N
- Longitude: 111.9754° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sunburst is served by the Sunburst School District, which includes Sunburst High School and an elementary school. The school provides a solid academic foundation for the small community, offering a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and music programs. The town does not have many large landmarks, but the Sunburst Depot, a historic train station from the town’s railroad days, stands as a reminder of the town’s history as a transportation hub. The area surrounding Sunburst is primarily agricultural, with expansive fields and ranches. Residents and visitors often enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and birdwatching, thanks to the nearby Sweet Grass Hills, which are located a short distance to the north. These hills are also home to a range of wildlife, making them a popular destination for those interested in nature and wildlife conservation. The town’s agricultural roots are celebrated during local events, such as the annual harvest festival, which showcases Sunburst’s farming heritage.
Ethridge
Location and History
Ethridge is a small unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Toole County, about 20 miles south of Shelby. The town was founded in the early 1900s and was named after its founder, a local businessman who saw the area’s potential for agricultural development. Ethridge grew steadily during its early years, becoming a hub for grain farming and cattle ranching. The town is situated in a fertile valley near the Marias River, making it an ideal location for agriculture. Over time, Ethridge’s population has remained small, but the area continues to be a vital agricultural region, particularly for wheat, barley, and hay production. While it has not experienced significant growth in recent decades, Ethridge remains a quiet, rural community with a deep connection to its agricultural roots. The town is primarily residential, with farms and ranches surrounding it on all sides, and continues to serve as an essential part of the local economy.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.16 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 91
- Zip Codes: 59452
- Latitude: 48.2784° N
- Longitude: 112.0305° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ethridge is served by the Shelby Public Schools District, as the small community lacks its own school. Children from Ethridge attend Shelby High School and other schools in the nearby area. Though Ethridge is a quiet, rural community, the surrounding agricultural landscape is rich with historical landmarks and scenic beauty. One of the town’s more notable features is the nearby Marias River, which provides opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities. The region around Ethridge is known for its historic farms and ranches, many of which have been passed down through generations of local families. These working ranches and farms contribute significantly to the local economy. Ethridge is also within driving distance of the Marias River Wildlife Management Area, which offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and recreational opportunities in a stunning natural environment.
Other Communities in Toole County
In addition to Shelby, Sunburst, and Ethridge, Toole County is home to several other small towns and communities, including Bynum and Rudyard. These communities, while small in population, play important roles in the local agricultural and energy sectors. Toole County’s economy is largely driven by farming, oil production, and natural gas, with vast stretches of farmland used for grain and cattle farming. The region’s rich history is rooted in the railroad and agricultural development that occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Toole County remains a peaceful, rural area that continues to support agriculture, energy production, and small-town living. The county’s scenic beauty and proximity to the Canadian border also make it a desirable location for those interested in exploring the natural landscapes of northwestern Montana.