Surrounded by several mountain ranges, Stanford, MT, is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.
In fact, the breathtaking countryside is immortalized in the many works of Charles M. Russel, Montana’s Cowboy Artist, who spent a considerable amount of time in Stanford and used the region’s geography as inspiration for his paintings.
In 1880, Stanford originated as a small settlement owned by Calvin and Edward Bower, who named their newly acquired 100,000 acres after their hometown of Stanfordville, NY.
As an important stop along the Fort Benton-Billings stage route, Stanford rapidly grew in popularity and became a frequent meeting place for cowboys who stock grazed the area before the arrival of homesteaders and shepherds.
However, the arrival of the new railway station in 1908 heralded the town into Montana’s Homestead Era, and with it came rapid growth in the town’s population.
Moving about three miles to be adjacent to the railroads, Stanford asserted itself as an influential community in the region and has served as the Judith Basin County seat since its conception in 1920.
Today, Stanford remains an important community in Judith Basin County and features some of the most impressive landscapes in Montana.
Stanford attracts visitors from around the world as they flock to this historic community and engage the many outdoor wonders that preside there.
The Top 3 Hotels in Stanford
