Namesakes: John Adam Stemple

Stemple Pass is well known landmark in the Lincoln area. Once a primary route between Helena and Lincoln, today it's a popular byway that provides access to outdoor activities year round.

But who was this pass, and the surrounding mining district, actually named for?

John Adam Stemple was born in Preston County, W. Va., March 16, 1834.

His family is reportedly settled in Virginia in 1774, after tw...