The collection consists of a typescript of the early history and founding of Mineral County, Montana, by Eva and Elmer H. Gates, and appears to be preliminary notes for a book. Included are town histories of Alberton, Fish Creek, Saltese (Silver City), Taft, Iron Mountain, Superior, Cedar Creek, Carter, Keystone, Amador, and Deborgia. There are accounts of mining activities, major structures erected in each town, early settlers, ethnic groups in the area, ferries, mills, fires, roads, and railroads. Much of the manuscript is in note form, appears to have been compiled from newspapers, especially the Mineral Independent, and includes notes on people to consult for additional information.