The article provides a historical timeline of notable events in Columbia Falls and Glacier National Park over the past 70 years. Highlights include the passing of Columbia Falls’ first leash law in 1955, the opening of the Bank of Columbia Falls with a display of gold nuggets and sapphires in 1965, and environmental concerns in 1975 about larch tree infestations possibly linked to aluminum plant emissions. Other key moments include the controversial conversion of the Apgar School House into a gift shop in 1985, significant flood damage in Waterton Lakes National Park in 1995, and the designation of timber use areas in the Flathead National Forest in 2005.
More recent events include a personal health milestone in 2005 when a local resident lost 100 pounds through surgery and support, and in 2015, Glacier National Park celebrated welcoming its 100 millionth visitor, Becky Janssen, who was honored with gifts. These snapshots reflect both community developments and environmental challenges in the region over several decades.