Roadtrip: Ghost Towns

We headed out to find the ghost towns of Coolidge and Bannack. Each has its own character - one is well preserved, the other a collection of cabin-shaped piles. In both cases, the number of Homeowners Association (HOA) violations left us shocked.

WARNING: Missoulians, especially Baby Boomer-activists and those with musically-gifted children attending international schools, should take caution when visiting the ghost towns of Montana. Prepare yourself for the stark truths of yesteryear...

...dirty dishes

...floodplain code violations

...improper nailing schedules

...acid mine drainage

...complete disregard for tree ordinances

...brothels lacking clear signage

...termites

...single-pane windows without low E glass (!)

...unlicensed barbers

...child abuse

...substandard wallboard

...suspicious snow load calculations

...absentee realtors

...chalk dust

...abandoned buildings with no accommodations for the homeless

...a surprisingly good selection of brushed leather pumps