Hidden History of Missoula

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Beyond the Barons For many, Missoula's history is primarily comprised of the business empires of Montana pioneers such as A.B. Hammond or E.L. Bonner. However, beneath their prominence lies more diverse, lesser-known contributions. Between 1880 and 1940, Missoula's Front Street Commercial District housed a thriving Chinese community, African American families and low-class immigrant laborers. Also of service was a complex hierarchy of 'working women'--sex workers ruled by savvy businesswoman Madam Mary Gleim. Uncover the forgotten lives of the Garden City's most prominent 'restricted' citizens, from Capital Beer Hall proprietor Anton Schilling to Chinese restaurateur Sam Yung. Meet figures such as 25th Infantry Private William Reed and railroad carpenter turned brothel owner Cornelius 'Bobby' Burns, among many others. Historian Sophia H. Etier presents a chronology of stories about Montanans, for Montanans.