Location: Circle, McCone County
On February 20, 1919, the State of Montana officially established McCone County, carving it out of a portion of Dawson County. This act of legislative reorganization was part of a broader trend in Montana during the early 20th century to create smaller, more localized administrative units to better serve the needs of a growing and dispersing population. McCone County, named after state senator George McCone, is located in eastern Montana, a region characterized by its vast agricultural lands, particularly for dryland farming and ranching. The county seat was established in Circle, a town that emerged as a central hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. The creation of McCone County reflected the increasing settlement and development of this part of Montana, as homesteaders and ranchers sought to establish their livelihoods on the plains. The new county provided essential local governance, including services for education, law enforcement, and infrastructure development, which were crucial for the continued growth and prosperity of its residents. This event marks another significant step in the ongoing process of shaping Montana's political geography and adapting its administrative structures to meet the demands of its evolving communities.