First Two Commercial Buildings
This ad appeared in the Missoulian Centennial issue.
Missoula’s First Two Commercial Buildings
This sawmill (at left) and gristmill were constructed in 1864-65 by Missoula’s cofounders, Francis L. Worden and Capt. Christopher P. Higgins, at what today is the north end of Higgins Avenue Bridge. These were the first two commercial buildings in the Garden City. This project started the move from the rough little town of Hell Gate and caused the city to be located where it is now.
This sketch was made by Peter Toffts, artist who accompanied Gen. Thomas Francis Meagher on his “Rides Through Montana.” (Courtesy of Deane Jones)