This 1899 map depicts Carbon County, Montana, a region characterized by its diverse topography and significant natural resources. The map illustrates the county's boundaries, bordering Sweet Grass County to the north, Yellowstone County to the east, Park County to the west, and the state of Wyoming to the south.
Carbon County is prominently marked with its mountainous terrain, including the Beartooth Mountains in the southwestern corner. These mountains, part of the larger Rocky Mountain range, are noted for their rugged peaks and rich mineral deposits. The Yellowstone River flows along the county's northern boundary, providing an essential waterway that supported early settlement and continues to play a vital role in the region's ecology and economy.
Several creeks, such as Stillwater Creek and Red Lodge Creek, traverse the county, feeding into the Yellowstone River and supporting agriculture and early mining operations. The presence of areas labeled as Bad Lands in the southeastern section of the county indicates the arid and rugged nature of this region, characterized by erosional formations and sparse vegetation.
Red Lodge, marked centrally, serves as the county seat and was a bustling hub of coal mining and ranching at the time. Other settlements like Joliet, Roberts, and Bowler are noted, reflecting the dispersed rural population reliant on agriculture, ranching, and resource extraction. The map also identifies the Old Crow Agency, indicating the presence of Native American lands and reflecting the region's cultural and historical significance.