Time is running out for these Indian War officer's duplexes, c. 1878 (Amorette Allison)

Dear Preservation 911,

Help! I am the city historic preservation officer in Miles City, Mont. We have two c. 1878 Indian War officer's duplexes that we must move or salvage by May 1, 2004 or it's weenie-roast time.

The buildings are part of historic Fort Keogh but were moved off their original site by the Department of Agriculture so it could avoid being responsible for them.

They are structurally in passable shape, but most of the really "good" stuff inside was stolen over the years. Still, they have lovely hardwood floors and could be restored … for a quarter of a million dollars or so.

After 15 years, the administration at Fort Keogh has told us to move 'em or destroy 'em—or they will. They are lovely buildings, authentic souvenirs of the last of the Old West, but we can't afford to fix them up.

Is there someone near eastern Montana who might be interested? Is there any hope you can offer or at all, or will you just send a bag of marshmallows?

Thanks!

Amorette Allison
Miles City, Mont.

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