Two local business owners are bringing new life to a historic Montana town

“Montana reaches into your soul,” said Shirley Beck. “It’s just an absolutely fantastic place.”

In Small Town Gem, the newest installment in the Discover Your #MontanaMoment video series from the Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development, local business owners Dale Siegford and Shirley Beck are leading a revival of the historic town of Philipsburg. The town, which was founded as a prosperous mining community, nearly became vacant following the silver crash of 1892. The residents have since reinvented Philipsburg into an international tourist destination, bringing a second life to this Montana town.

“When we first started here it was practically a ghost town,” said Dale Siegford, “and it’s developing into a shining little city.”

Dale and Shirley are the owners of the Sweet Palace and The Sapphire Gallery, two local businesses that have sparked a renovation of downtown Philipsburg. Nicknamed “Montana’s Candy Store,” The Sweet Palace offers a delicious taste of the state with a variety of homemade candies, chocolates, and sweets. Located next door is the Sapphire Gallery, which allows visitors to pan for their own sapphires and create customized jewelry with their discovered treasures. Together, Dale and Shirley are leading the sweet return of Philipsburg.

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