Preparations Montana State Prison

interior of cellblock 1, showing proximity of cell tier , catwalk

jerry myles knew timing play major factor in successful initiation of riot. between time released general population in february 1958 until decided start riot, paid close attention movements of guards , found loophole in routine; each day during dinnertime turnover, ratio of guards inmates decreased in cellblock 1. plan seize rifle 1 of guards walked catwalk outside cell when guard alone. catwalk close tier of cells. guards routinely moved between catwalk , tiers little more hopping 1 other; since neither walkway caged, maneuver simple.

myles needed recruit other inmates cause limit number of prisoners knew specifics ensure administration caught unaware. chose let lee smart in on plans, coaxing boy along promises of freedom , adventure. george alton, shrewd, intelligent man, less convinced, though workable escape plan attracted him. myles needed alton because of rapport inmate population. alton worked in prison garage , had access gasoline, crucial part of myles plans. myles assured alton use deputy warden rothe shield , hostage gain exit tower 7, , there freedom. myles strong-armed harold laureys, known lockpicker, or gopher man in prison lingo, being ready escape attempt, gave him few specifics other that.

myles, smart, , alton constructed reservoir in 1 of shelves in smart s cell, , alton regularly filled space gasoline smuggled out of garage. trio waited until had filled container before enacting plans.