By Josh Margolis
MALTA, Mont. (NMB) – A recently refurbished stagecoach is back on display in Malta at the Antique Modes of Transportation Museum.
The Malta-Zortman “Mud Wagon” Stagecoach was initially built in Helena back in 1890, and Museum spokeswoman Jane Ereaux says it has large historic significance, especially from 1904 to 1914.
“The mine was going in out at Zortman. So it hauled about 40 ounces of gold to town every week. Then it brought the payroll back for the mine and it hauled people back and forth, needless to say. One of the highlights was the Exeter Train was held up by Kid Curry in that era, but the Stagecoach was never robbed during that time.”
The repairing of the historic stagecoach was funded through public and private grants, loans, and donations.
The Stagecoach can be viewed from US 2.
“It’s a display. And it is operable. So if the Museum or the City of Malta decided they wanted it to be in a parade or anything like that, it is totally operable. But the hope is that wouldn’t be done a lot.”
A celebration for the return of the Stagecoach was held last month, and local officials were dressed in historical garb and provided rides around town.
