It’s Official: New Report Shows the Impact of ‘1923’ on Butte

BUTTE, MT - ​The television series "1923," a prequel to the popular "Yellowstone," has cast a spotlight on Butte, Montana, serving as a significant filming location and influencing the local economy and community.

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As the series embarks on its second season, the effects of its production in Butte have been both celebrated and scrutinized.

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A Cinematic Transformation of Butte

"1923" intricately weaves the saga of the Dutton family, capturing their journey from Europe to America, with Butte prominently featured as a backdrop.

The production team transformed local landmarks, such as the Butte Civic Center, into authentic 1920s settings, providing viewers with a genuine glimpse into the era.

This meticulous attention to detail not only enhanced the show's authenticity but also brought a unique vibrancy to the city.

Economic Windfalls: A Boost to Local Businesses in Butte

The influx of the "1923" production brought tangible economic benefits to Butte.

Local establishments experienced increased patronage, with crew members and actors frequenting restaurants, shops, and services.

The transformation of the Civic Center into a sound stage and the retrofitting of buildings for filming purposes injected substantial funds into the local economy.

Additionally, the production provided employment opportunities for residents, from background acting roles to technical support positions.

The broader impact of the "Yellowstone" franchise on Montana's tourism is noteworthy.

A study by the University of Montana highlighted that the original series attracted approximately 2.1 million visitors, resulting in $750 million in spending across the state.

While specific figures for "1923" are pending, its association with the franchise suggests a positive trend for local tourism and related industries.

The Other Side: Challenges and Concerns

Despite the economic advantages, the production's presence has not been without challenges.

The relocation of some filming activities to Austin, Texas, for the second season raised concerns among local businesses and artists about potential economic downturns.

Factors such as the non-renewal of certain tax incentives by the Montana Legislature have been cited as reasons for this shift, leading to apprehensions about future productions bypassing Butte. 

Additionally, the temporary nature of film productions means that while there is a surge in economic activity during filming, sustaining this momentum post-production poses challenges.

Local businesses that adapted to cater to the production's needs may face uncertainties once filming concludes.​

Community Resilience and Future Prospects

The people of Butte have showcased resilience and adaptability in the face of these challenges.

Local artists and actors remain optimistic, emphasizing the wealth of talent in the community and expressing determination to continue creating and attracting future projects.

The experience gained from hosting a major production like "1923" has equipped the city with the expertise to accommodate similar ventures in the future.

Montana legislators are actively pursuing initiatives to make the state more appealing to the film industry.

By revisiting and potentially reinstating tax incentives, there is hope to attract more productions, ensuring sustained economic and cultural benefits for communities like Butte.

Rolling Credits on a Transformative Experience

The filming of "1923" in Butte has been a double-edged sword, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

The city's rich history and unique landscapes have provided an authentic setting for the series, while the economic boost has been a welcome advantage.

However, the experience also underscores the need for strategic planning and policy support to sustain and grow local economies through the arts and entertainment sectors.

As Butte continues to navigate the aftermath of "1923's" production, the community's resilience and proactive approach will be pivotal in scripting its next chapter in the film industry.