By Altona Huntley, Canadian News Hub
Box Elder, MONT. — Close to the Canadian border, Havre is a small Montana city that combines a long history with a friendly community. Even though it is not a big place, Havre has been important to the region since the late 1800s. It grew first as a military post and later became a centre for farming, education and travel across the northern plains.
The story of Havre begins after the Great Sioux War of 1876. In 1879, the U.S. Army built Fort Assiniboine near the Milk River. A few years later, in 1890, James J. Hill’s Great Northern Railway came through the area. The railway brought settlers, businesses and jobs, and the small settlement nearby grew quickly. In 1893, the town was named Havre, after the French port city of Le Havre. The name, meaning “harbour,” was a nod to the town’s role as a safe stop for travellers and trade.
Farming became the heart of Havre’s economy. Wheat, barley and sugar beets remain important crops, and the open fields around the city are still central to its way of life. Havre’s location along U.S. Route 2 makes it a busy stop for trucks and travellers moving between east and west. Being near Canada also makes it a natural link for cross-border trade and visits. Montana State University–Northern, located in Havre, adds another important part of the city by bringing students, teachers and cultural events.
The city also has a unique social history. In the 1890s, African American cavalry troops known as Buffalo Soldiers were stationed at Fort Assiniboine. Many stayed in the area and helped form a small African American community, building a church and businesses. At the same time, immigrants from Europe—Scandinavia, Germany and Eastern Europe—came west with the railroad, giving Havre a mix of cultures that shaped its character.
Today, Havre blends its history with new opportunities. One of the most popular attractions is the “Havre Beneath the Streets” tour, where visitors walk through underground tunnels once used by shopkeepers during harsh winters. The Blaine County Museum and Hill County Courthouse highlight local stories, while Beaver Creek Park and the Bear Paw Mountains give people a chance to camp, hike, fish and enjoy nature.
The area also has much to offer. Just a short drive south, the Box Elder community is home to the Chippewa Cree Tribe on the Rocky Boy’s Reservation. Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and can experience the culture, traditions and history of the First Nations people who have lived in the region for generations. The Bear Paw Mountains offer beautiful hiking trails, fresh air, and breathtaking views of rolling hills and expansive skies.
Chinook and Big Sandy also offer travellers opportunities to experience Montana’s small-town charm. Each community has its own story, shaped by farming families, Native traditions, and the resilience of people living on the Northern Plains. Together, they form a region where neighbours support one another and visitors are treated like friends.
Every September, residents celebrate Havre Festival Days with parades, music, food and rides. The event shows Havre’s strong community spirit and brings visitors from nearby towns. Havre also continues to improve its streets, businesses and parks to make the city welcoming for both residents and guests.
For Canadians seeking a trip off the main tourist routes, Havre and its surrounding communities are an appealing option. They offer a rich history, outdoor activities, and a close-knit atmosphere that feels both new and familiar. Whether someone stops for a short visit or spends a weekend exploring, Havre and its neighbours give a clear picture of life on Montana’s northern plains, past and present.
Really enjoyed this piece. Thanks for shining a light on Havre and the people in Box Elder, making the area feel alive and welcoming.