St. Marie, Montana, is an intriguing example of a modern-day ghost town. The town was established alongside Glasgow Air Force Base in faraway northeast Montana, which was established during World War II. The base played a significant role in the defense strategy of the United States during the Cold War era.
During its active years, Glasgow Air Force Base
served as a Strategic Air Command (SAC) base, operating as a key component of
America's nuclear deterrent. Its strategic location in northern plains of Montana
made it a crucial hub for bomber operations and missile defense.
The Air Force base brought both people and economic
prosperity to St. Marie. As geopolitical dynamics shifted and military
priorities changed, Glasgow Air Force Base was ultimately closed in the early
1970s. The closure had a devastating impact on St. Marie, leading to a rapid
decline in population and economic activity. Many residents left in search of
employment elsewhere, and businesses shuttered their doors.
Today, St. Marie stands mostly as a modern-day
ghost town, characterized by abandoned buildings, empty streets, and a palpable
sense of loss. As of the 2020 census, the town supported a population of only 325.
The remnants of its past glory; including derelict military facilities and
neglected infrastructure, serve as poignant reminders of the town's former
vibrancy. I have posted a link below for a video about St. Marie.
—Mitchell Hegman
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