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Tracy Thornton

Viola the elephant’s ‘tragic’ story: This wasn’t her first escape

The story of Viola the elephant escaping the Jordan World Circus on Tuesday in Butte was shared nationwide and beyond. Reports of her brief journey for freedom spread like wildfire. People frantically sent photos to families and friends, as well as on social media. The accompanying videos were humorous material

All eyes on elephant that escaped circus, wandered through Butte traffic

There was some excitement at about noon Tuesday as Viola, an elephant with the Jordan World Circus escaped from the Butte Civic Center and headed down Harrison Avenue despite the heavy traffic. For a brief time, vehicles came to a standstill. Viola, who is in her late 40s, quickly veered

Butte in 1923 — the good, the bad and the ugly revealed

EDITOR’S NOTE: The newest prequel to the popular television series, “Yellowstone,” is currently being filmed in Butte. “1923” is the story of Dutton ancestors, Cara and Jacob, matriarch and patriarch of the Dutton family. Set in the years preceding the Great Depression, the most recent addition will take viewers

A look back: Prohibition came a year early for Montanans

By the time prohibition took effect nationwide on Jan. 17, 1920, Montanans were seasoned veterans to the cause. Apparently, Montana got the memo a bit early because here in Big Sky Country, the 18th amendment to the U.S. Constitution was enforced as of Jan. 1, 1919. “Enforced” may be