Life in the Wild West celebrated during last weekend's Bannack Days

Judge Alan Williams slammed down his gavel and admonished the prisoner to "Stay out of trouble in this town!" The prisoner had been arrested on Bannack's Main Street when he was recognized as a claim jumper. The Judge had several options – whipping – hanging – or, perhaps, the remittance of a gold piece. Finally the wife agreed and turned over the gold coin and the man went free and the court was dismissed.

Since 1976, the registered historic landmark known as Bannack, has celebrated its 'wild west' history during Bannack Days. This was the site of the first major gold discovery i...