The Nye area has a mining history going back as far as 1864. Among the first prospectors to capitalize on this newly opend territory were Jack Nye and the Hedges brothers, Jimmy and Jonas. The first mining town in the valley, Nye City, was a bustling, promising mining camp. By the end of 1887, a small smelter had been assembled. The town's population peaked at about 400 people and counted at one time, six saloons, a store, a commissary, a boarding house and an assay office. Before full production could get underway, it was discovered that Nye City was inside the Crow Reservation boundaries. In 1889 evacuation was ordered. Protest and appeals were made to no avail.
Mining continues to be an important part of the community. The Stillwater Mining Company is one of the world's leading producers of Platinum group metals and the only significant primary producer of Palladium in the Western Hemisphere.
In 1999, resident established the Nye Community Foundation, whose efforts benefit the entire Nye community.
"Stillwater Valley Highway 78 the most beautiful byway to Yellowstone Park via Columbus, Absarokee, Roscoe and Red Lodge."
The Nye area has a mining history going back as far as 1864. Among the first prospectors to capitalize on this newly opend territory were Jack Nye and the Hedges brothers, Jimmy and Jonas. The first mining town in the valley, Nye City, was a bustling, promising mining camp. By the end of 1887, a small smelter had been assembled. The town's population peaked at about 400 people and counted at one time, six saloons, a store, a commissary, a boarding house and an assay office. Before full production could get underway, it was discovered that Nye City was inside the Crow Reservation boundaries. In 1889 evacuation was ordered. Protest and appeals were made to no avail.
