Cannon House

Helena South-Central Historic District

By The Montana National Register Sign Program

Cannon House Cannon House (PAc 91-51 South Central Helena Roll17 F10). Front to side view of the house, facing south to southeast on East Broadway Street near the intersection of East Broadway and South Ewing Street. B&W. Source: Montana State Historic Preservation Office from the Photograph Archives at the Montana Historical Society Creator: Photographer unidentified Date: 1981

Pioneer capitalist Charles W. Cannon built this architectural gem for his bride, Catherine, in 1868. It was then Helena’s finest residence and is today a splendid local example of the Carpenter Gothic style. The steeply pitched roof and lancet windows typify Gothic design, while turned spindles, pierced columns, and matching porch skirting showcased the talents of local carpenters. Cannon was an influential figure, whose interests extended from mining, ranching, and real estate to Helena’s first public utilities. Catherine, renowned for her hospitality, opened portions of the home for use as Territorial Governor Crosby’s executive mansion in 1883. The Cannons developed Helena’s scenic Le Grand Cannon Boulevard in memory of their son. Catherine outlived her husband, remaining here until 1916.