Cities and Towns in Wheatland County, Montana
Founded in February 22, 1917, Wheatland County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Wheatland County was formed from Meagher County and Sweet Grass County. The city of Harlowton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 107, Wheatland County has a population of 2,059 and area of 1,423 square miles (3,686 km²).
List of all cities in Wheatland County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Garneill, MT | 59453 | 406 |
| Harlowton, MT | 59036 | 406 |
| Judith Gap, MT | 59453 | 406 |
| Shawmut, MT | 59078 | 406 |
| Two Dot, MT | 59085 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wheatland County, Montana
Harlowton
Location and History
Harlowton, the county seat of Wheatland County, is located in central Montana, approximately 90 miles northeast of Billings. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after the prominent local railroad executive, James Harlow. Originally founded as a railroad town, Harlowton served as a significant railroad hub due to its strategic position on the Northern Pacific Railway, which connected the area to other parts of the state and beyond. The arrival of the railroad in 1897 transformed Harlowton into a bustling town, with agriculture and transportation being the primary drivers of the local economy. As a major shipping point for wheat, livestock, and other goods, Harlowton experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century. Over time, however, the decline of the railroad industry and shifts in transportation patterns slowed the town’s growth. Despite these challenges, Harlowton retains much of its historical charm and is known for its proximity to the Crazy Mountains, making it a gateway for outdoor recreation and a small agricultural center in the region.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.08 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 1,150
- Zip Codes: 59036
- Latitude: 46.2264° N
- Longitude: 109.8547° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harlowton is served by the Harlowton School District, which includes the Harlowton High School and Elementary School. The district is known for providing a strong academic foundation in a close-knit, rural community, offering extracurricular programs in sports and the arts. Harlowton is home to several historical landmarks, including the old Harlowton Railroad Depot, which once served as the town’s center for commerce and is now a museum that showcases the town’s railroad heritage. The Wheatland County Courthouse, built in 1914, is another significant landmark in the town, reflecting the town’s early 20th-century architecture. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the nearby Crazy Mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Another local landmark is the Harlowton Public Library, which serves as a community hub. The surrounding rural landscape, with its wide open spaces and proximity to the mountains, makes Harlowton an ideal base for those looking to explore central Montana’s natural beauty.
Shawmut
Location and History
Shawmut is a small town located in the southeastern part of Wheatland County, about 30 miles south of Harlowton. The town was founded in the early 1900s as a stop along the railroad, which was essential to its development. Shawmut’s name is believed to come from a Native American word meaning “good hunting ground,” reflecting the region’s ties to indigenous history. Like many small towns in Montana, Shawmut grew as a railroad and agricultural center, with wheat farming being a major part of the local economy. The arrival of the railroad brought a wave of settlers to the area, leading to the establishment of several businesses and schools. Over time, however, Shawmut’s population declined as the railroad’s influence diminished and agricultural practices evolved. Today, Shawmut remains a quiet rural town with a rich history rooted in agriculture and transportation. Its role as a railroad town has faded, but it continues to reflect the pioneering spirit that defined much of Montana’s history.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.61 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 41
- Zip Codes: 59078
- Latitude: 46.0856° N
- Longitude: 109.9322° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shawmut is served by the Shawmut School District, which, although small, provides education to the few children in the area. The school offers a tight-knit community environment and supports extracurricular activities such as sports and music. As a small town, Shawmut’s landmarks include the historic Shawmut Depot, which once served as a major stop on the Northern Pacific Railway and is now a symbol of the town’s historical significance. The town also has the Shawmut Cemetery, where many of the area’s early settlers are buried, offering insight into the town’s past. Shawmut’s rural setting is highlighted by the surrounding open farmland, which remains a significant part of the local economy. While there are no large parks or recreational areas in Shawmut, the surrounding region provides ample outdoor opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the local prairies.
Melville
Location and History
Melville is a tiny, unincorporated community located to the northwest of Harlowton in Wheatland County. The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after Melville, the first postmaster of the area. Its early economy was based primarily on agriculture, particularly sheep and cattle ranching, and it was initially a stop along the railroad. While Melville’s population has remained small, it has maintained its rural roots, with many of the original ranching families still living in the area. The town is situated near the Crazy Mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop for the surrounding farmland. Melville’s economy has always been tied to agriculture, and the town has remained a peaceful, close-knit community. Its history is intertwined with the development of the surrounding area, which is known for its rugged beauty and agricultural heritage.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 25
- Zip Codes: 59055
- Latitude: 46.3603° N
- Longitude: 109.7860° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated community, Melville does not have its own school district, and children from the area typically attend schools in Harlowton or other nearby towns. Despite its small size, Melville has several notable landmarks, including the Melville Schoolhouse, which remains an iconic structure that reflects the town’s educational history. The surrounding area is known for its ranching heritage, and many of the old ranches and barns are still operational, offering a glimpse into the agricultural lifestyle that has defined the region for generations. The town is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, with the Crazy Mountains nearby offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. While Melville lacks the modern amenities of larger towns, it offers a sense of tranquility and connection to the land that many people in Wheatland County cherish.
Other Communities in Wheatland County
Wheatland County is also home to smaller rural communities, such as Glenner, Wheatland, and Garneill. These areas were historically centered around agricultural and railroad activities, though many of these smaller towns have experienced a decline in population as residents moved to larger cities. Despite this, the agricultural heritage remains strong, and these communities continue to contribute to the county’s rural economy. The towns often serve as quiet retreats for those looking for a slower pace of life and a connection to Montana’s wide-open spaces and natural beauty. Though small and sparsely populated, they continue to be integral to the character of Wheatland County.
