Ismay - Scenic View

Ismay

The Smallest Town with the Biggest Heart

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Quick Facts
Population
1
County
Custer County
Region
Eastern Montana
Elevation
2,523 ft
Top Industry
Agriculture & Mining
Nearest Hospital
Fallon Medical Complex (26 mi)
Zip Code
59336
Area Code
406
Time Zone
Mountain Time (MT)
Industry: Census ACS 5-Year 2019–2023 · Hospital: MT DPHHS 2024
Current Weather
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Airport Distances

Nearest Major Airports

🛩️ Glendive (GDV)
53 miles
~1h 8m drive
🛩️ Sidney (SDY)
106 miles
~2h drive
🛩️ Wolf Point (OLF)
140 miles
~2h 34m drive
Browse recreation

Map & Nearby

Explore Ismay on the interactive map with 3 nearby towns and 4 highlighted recreation sites. Use the zoom controls or select a recreation item to focus it on the map.

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Outdoor Recreation Near Ismay

Outdoor Recreation Near Ismay

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3.2/10
Moderate
5 sites within 30 mi
3 categories

Distances are straight-line estimates. Driving distances may be longer. Data: OpenStreetMap contributors & editorial research.

History & Heritage

History & Heritage

The quiet town of Ismay represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Ismay is closely tied to the pioneering spirit of early Montana. Founded during the homesteading or railroad eras, the town grew as a central hub for the surrounding farmers and ranchers who worked the expansive plains and river valleys. Today, it retains its deep agricultural heritage and stands as a testament to the resilience of rural Montana communities.

Official historic markers tied to Ismay in our statewide dataset. Expand the list to read inscriptions and follow links to full pages or deep reads where available. Browse Custer County on the map · History trails

Historic markers in Ismay (2)tap to expand
Ismay Jail

Ismay’s bustling business, wicked ways, and itinerant population of cowboys and railroad men earned it the nickname “Little Chicago.” This town, born with the construction of the Milwaukee Road across Montana, began in 1908 with the name of Burt. Burt became Ismay a few months later, taking its new name from Isabelle and Maybelle, daughters of railroad official George Peck. At the start of the heady settlement boom of the 1910s, Ismay had need of a deterrent for its rougher element. Bids were taken for construction of a local jail and W. T. Perham won the contract for $676. The utilitarian brick jail, of squat and sturdy construction with small windows and iron bars, was built in 1910. This type of lock-up was once common in rural settlements. Over the years, the building largely accommodated rowdies who overindulged at local saloons and served as a holding facility for prisoners awaiting transport to the county jail at Miles City. It is the only public building that remains from Ismay’s early period. Today the community is Montana’s smallest incorporated town, and in 1993 its twenty-two residents took an unprecedented gamble. In a public relations stroke of genius that won national attention, Ismay conditionally changed its name to Joe in honor of football player Joe Montana. This entrepreneurial enterprise netted enough capital to build a new fire hall, acquire a fire truck, and restore the jail. It stands today as a reminder of the times when Ismay was the “Little Chicago” of the West.

Erected by Montana Historical Society.

Site of Station Creek Station

On the Bismarck-Ft Keogh Trail, at various time periods trail was known as Sandstone Bismarck - Ft Keogh Ft Lincoln - Ft Keogh Army Trail during 1879 - 1881 (?) 1873 by civilian freighters and used until the building of Northern Pacific R.R. and Chicago, Milwaukee and Puget Sound R.R. r (?) ized as Chicago, Milwaukee, St Paul and Pacific Railroad.

Historic markers map

Open the interactive map filtered to Ismay. The view zooms to the markers for this community.

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Events & Festivals in Ismay

We do not have featured local listings for Ismay yet.

Montana statewide events & festivals calendar

Browse the statewide calendar for festivals, fairs, rodeos, and concerts across Montana.

View all Montana events · Where to stay in Ismay

Quick Facts

  • Population: ~TBD
  • County: TBD County
  • Elevation: TBD ft
  • Known For: Historical agricultural roots, stunning Montana landscapes, and quiet small-town charm.

Top Things to Do in Ismay

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Ismay serves as a fantastic, quiet basecamp for exploring the vast public lands, rivers, and mountain ranges that define this region of Montana.
  • Experience Local Culture: Visit the local businesses, cafes, and historic sites in town to experience the genuine, welcoming hospitality of a classic Montana ranching community.
  • Hunting and Fishing: The surrounding agricultural fields, prairies, and waterways provide excellent, uncrowded opportunities for seasonal hunting and fishing.

Local Industry & Economy

The economy of Ismay is primarily driven by agriculture. The vast expanses of land surrounding the town are dedicated to cattle ranching and dryland farming (primarily wheat, barley, and hay). Small, locally-owned businesses provide essential services and goods to the community, while the local school district often serves as one of the primary civic anchors and employers in town.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

  • Getting There: Ismay is accessible via Montana's network of scenic state highways and local county roads, offering a beautiful drive no matter which direction you approach from.
  • Nearby Destinations:
    • Regional Hubs: Larger neighboring cities offer comprehensive dining, shopping, and commercial airports.
    • State Parks and Public Lands: Visitors can easily take day trips to nearby state parks, national forests, or wildlife refuges.

Where to Stay in Ismay

Because Ismay is a smaller, residential community, traditional commercial lodging can be limited.

  • Local Motels: There may be small, independent motels in or near town offering basic accommodations for highway travelers and hunters.
  • Nearby Cities: Many visitors choose to stay in larger regional hubs a short drive away, utilizing Ismay as a scenic day-trip destination.
  • Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby public lands often provide beautiful, rustic camping options.
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Ismay Climate

Average Monthly Climate: Ismay

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan34°F17°F0.5"1.2"
Feb28°F10°F0.8"2.1"
Mar42°F21°F0.4"0.9"
Apr52°F31°F1.7"2.7"
May65°F44°F2.7"0.3"
Jun79°F57°F2.1"0"
Jul86°F63°F1.3"0"
Aug85°F61°F1.1"0"
Sep75°F52°F1.8"0"
Oct54°F36°F1.9"2.2"
Nov43°F25°F0.6"1.2"
Dec34°F17°F0.8"2"
Housing & Economy
Schools
🏫
Ismay Public Schools
~10 students
Ismay in Rankings & Guides
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