The Flathead Story

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FOREST SERVICE
FLATHEAD NATIONAL FOREST
KALISPELL, MONTANA 59901

"The Flathead Story" is a general history of the Flathead National Forest of Northwestern Montana. The story was written by Charles S. Shaw who worked on Ranger Districts of the Flathead Forest for 31 years. He started his assignment here in 1922. In addition to his work as a Forest Ranger, he served in the Supervisor's Office at Kalispell for 2 years and for 3 years in the Northern Region Headquarters, Division of Operations in Missoula. He retired June 30, 1964.

The history covers establishment and development of this National Forest. The story includes exploration of the area by David Thompson in 1809 and his establishment of a trading post near the present site of Kalispell in 1811. Other explorers came into this area in 1810, including Finan McDonald, Michael Bordeaux, and Baptiste Bucher. Frontiersmen, trappers, loggers, and homesteaders all have a part in this history.

Their history is the result of extensive research by Shaw. He searched records, interviewed oldtimers of the area, and has drawn on his extensive personal knowledge.

R. D. Rogers, Flathead National Forest dispatcher, assisted Shaw in compiling the information and writing the story. "The Flathead Story" reflects credit on Shaw and Rogers. It will be a helpful and interesting publication for historians, educators, Forest Service employees, and others with interests and responsibilities in resource management.

Kalispell, Montana
October 24, 1967

J. M. POMAJEVICH
Forest Supervisor
Flathead National Forest