Montanans take pride in the charming towns and larger cities developed from the rugged landscape. These communities have a rich history, shaped by the Native Americans and the pioneers who carved their legacies into this harsh environment. But do you know how these famous cities and towns got their names?

Here are 3 cities in Montana and the origins of their names.

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Livingston

In the early 1880s, the Northern Pacific Railroad was in full expansion mode and needed a location to establish a supply area for the railroad workers. They settled on a spot where The Lewis and Clark expedition had made camp in 1806.

Livingston was founded in 1882 and named Clark City in honor of Herman Clark, a Northern Pacific Railroad builder. Later that same year, the name was changed to Livingston after Johnston Livingston, who was a big wig of the railroad. We can only speculate, but I am sure Mr. Clark was not thrilled with the new titling.

Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana's fourth largest city, was founded in 1864 by John Merin Bozeman. John Bozeman was known as a prospector, frontiersman, and entrepreneur and had an interesting past.

He was born in Pickens County, Georgia, in 1837. By 1858, he was determined to head west, leaving behind his wife and three children. In 1862, after he stopped mining, he created the famous Bozeman Trail and became one of the founders of the Montana Vigilantes.

Credit:Canva
Credit:Canva
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Missoula

The Native Americans of the Salish tribe gave Missoula its unique name. The area was known for conflicts between tribes, and the word "Nemissoolatakoo" translates to "river of ambush/surprise."

The east side of Missoula serves as a natural corridor, leading to conflicts over resources (Buffalo) and easier travel. French fur trappers who passed through the area reported that the entrance was strewn with human bones from ambushes and referred to it as "Porte d'Enfer," which translates to "Hell's Gate."

The area was commonly referred to as Hell's Gate until it was officially established as Missoula in 1866.  

Credit: achp.gov , TrueWestMagazine , LegendsOfAmerica , Kids.kiddle

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