Helena Capital of Montana, USA, in the w central part. It was settled by prospectors in 1864. By 1868 the population was 7500 and US$16 million worth of gold had been mined. In 1875 it was made capital of Montana Territory, becoming state capital in 1889. Industries: mineral smelting, bakery equipment, ceramics, paints. Pop. (2000) 25,780.

Helena: Introduction

Helena, known as the "City of Gold," lies at the heart of the Rocky Mountains in a fertile region with rolling hills. On the outskirts of the city lies the giant Helena National Forest, which provides spectacular scenery and many opportunities for outdoor activities. Once a mining boom town, Helena is now a major social and governmental center of the American west, offering amenities not usually found in a city of its size.

Helena, Guyana, USA 1. USA (Arkansas): settled in 1797 as Monticello and renamed St Francis. In 1821 it was renamed again after the daughter of Sylvanus Phillips.2. USA (Montana): founded in 1864 as Last Chance Gulch when gold was discovered. It was quickly renamed, probably after the community in Minnesota. However, some like the thought that it was named after Helen of Troy, while others believe it was named because its location resembled that of St Helena in California, the ‘St’ being dropped later.