Phillips County Museum News for Wednesday, April 27, 2022

Wondering how Zortman got its name?

Zortman, an early mining town in the Little Rockies, was named after Oliver Pete Zortman.

Zortman was born in Pennsylvania in 1865. He spent his early years receiving a school education and helping his father in his farming. In his early 20’s the lure of gold and striking it rich drew him to the Black Hills. Not having any success in that area, he landed in Landusky in 1894, later moving to a mining camp to the north.

Ellen Burrows, a business owner in Zortman, remembers him as a tall, handsome man with grey eyes. His upright, confident, and courageous air made him much liked and admired.

Pete owned and operated several mines in the Zortman area with a moderation of success. He married Rose Finn, a teacher, who helped him study mining methods and procedures.

When it came time to name the mining camp a public meeting was called. The names Zortman and Alder were being considered. A good majority voted for Zortman and the town was officially named. In a typical mining camp fashion, a celebration was held where both sides came together and had a good time after the vote.

For more Zortman info visit the PC Museum Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.