BUTTE, MT July 10, 2022 – The American Flag on top of the courthouse last flew in 1983, Monday morning it flies again. The flagpole has been repaired and the gold finial ball was placed on top. To mark this significant occasion, we will be hosting a flag-raising ceremony on Friday, July 14th at 8: AM. The press and public are encouraged to attend.
Forty years ago, the US flag that once flew over the courthouse was taken down for safety reasons because the flagpole and finial ball were badly damaged. In 1983 Butte-Silver Bow had flagpoles installed in front of the courthouse erected to fly the US Flag and the Montana Flag.
Chief executive J.P. Gallagher explains, “I am extremely proud to announce Old Glory will once again fly over the courthouse. The task of restoring the flagpole on the courthouse was not an easy one. I want to thank and credit Government Buildings manager John Sullivan for getting the job done.” As written in a 1930 newspaper article, “The flag on top of the courthouse is one of the highest in the United States with the elevation and height of the flagpole almost 6000 feet above sea level.” J.P. continued to say, “Our flagpoles in front of the courthouse will continue to fly the Montana Flag, Butte-Silver Bow Flag, and the POW flag.
Starting on Monday, July 10, 2023, Old Glory will proudly fly high above the Butte-Silver Courthouse once again, visible for all to see.” MORE John Sullivan was hoping to get the flagpole finished by the fourth of July, but a lack of available parts extended the job a week. He hired Gary Hoose of A1 Flag and Pole out of Barryton, Michigan to repair the flagpole and finial ball. Lights to illuminate the flag were also installed on the roof.
“Having the flagpole refurbished and flying our county’s flag on arguably one of the most impressive buildings in the state is important to our community, the courthouse is the center of our city-county government and deserves to have a prominent flag,” says John Sullivan
