The business district near the Northern Pacific Depot suffered severe building damage during the main shock on October 18th.

1935 Helena, Montana earthquake series: magnitude 6 1/4

The warehouse roof of Christie Transfer and Storage fell in, pushing the walls out. One wall tore open a freight car of liquor being unloaded.

1935 Helena, Montana earthquake series: magnitude 6 1/4

80% of Helena's 3000 homes were damaged, but the majority could be repaired at moderate cost. 500 were left homeless, at least temporarily. 29 homes were totally destroyed.

1935 Helena, Montana earthquake series: magnitude 6 1/4

For nearly two weeks, many people lived in tents all over town. Some had no choice due to heavy damage to their homes. Others simply feared being inside during aftershocks.

1935 Helena, Montana earthquake series: magnitude 6 1/4

To offer emergency relief to people made homeless by the earthquake, the American Red Cross and the Federal Emergency Relief Agency (FERA) set up nearly 100 tents at "Camp Cooney" on the grounds of the National Guard west of the city. Approximately 400 people were housed the first night. Within a week, most found their own accomodations with friends or family out-of-town.

1935 Helena, Montana earthquake series: magnitude 6 1/4

Click here for page 1 of the 1935 Helena, MT earthquake photographs.
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