Hi-Bug Historic District
Hi Bug was a schoolyard term coined in the 1920s in reference to the wealthy and high-society residents of north Red Lodge. Developed between 1890 and 1930, the area’s location north of the coal mines yet near the railroad station, schools, churches, and business district made it ideal for the privileged class. Before 1910, it was an enclave of the English-speaking citizens. Bankers, lawyers, mining engineers, businessmen, and ranchers brought their families to the district. White-collar workers often boarded in the larger homes, while Nutting Row provided rental housing both for newlyweds awaiting construction of their own homes and families of area ranchers spending the school year in town. In planning homes, most families chose the popular “pattern book” styles of the era, but a select few hired local architect Seth Hunneywell. Several houses located at the north end of Hauser Avenue stand out as the largest, grandest homes in the city. Built by prominent businessmen, they served as symbols of the success and affluence attainable in Red Lodge.
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