Glendive, MT
County: Dawson
History
Glendive, Montana is a city located in Dawson County in the eastern part of the state. The history of Glendive can be traced back to the mid-1800s when it was inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Sioux and the Assiniboine. The area was a vital hunting ground for these tribes, as the Yellowstone River and the surrounding plains provided an abundance of wildlife.
European settlers arrived in the area during the late 19th century, attracted by the prospect of gold and other valuable minerals. The town of Glendive was officially established in 1881 after the Northern Pacific Railway arrived, bringing with it economic opportunities and development. The town was named after the nearby Glendive Creek, which was named by Captain William Clark during the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806.
Glendive quickly grew and became an important transportation hub for the region. It served as a major depot for the supply of military posts, including Fort Keogh and Fort Buford. The city also played a crucial role in supporting the construction of the railway, as it served as a major base for supplies and labor.
The economy of Glendive was primarily centered around agriculture, with local farmers relying on the fertile land and favorable climate for crops such as wheat, sugar beets, and flax. The city also had a thriving livestock industry, with cattle, sheep, and horses being raised in the surrounding area.
Over the years, Glendive faced its fair share of challenges and hardships. The area experienced severe droughts, floods, and economic downturns that impacted the agricultural and livestock industries. However, the community demonstrated resilience and adapted to these challenges, diversifying its economy to include industries such as oil, gas, and tourism.
Today, Glendive is a vibrant city with a population of around 5,000 residents. It is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. The city boasts several historic buildings and sites, including the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world.
Glendive continues to be an essential transportation hub, with Interstate 94 passing through the city and the Dawson Community Airport serving the region. It remains an agricultural community, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the local economy. Additionally, the oil and gas industry, along with tourism, contribute to the city's economic growth.
Overall, Glendive, Montana has a fascinating history that encompasses Native American heritage, pioneer settlement, railway development, and economic diversification. The city's rich past has shaped its present, making it a unique and thriving community in eastern Montana.
Attractions
Makoshika State Park
The largest state park in Montana, Makoshika offers unique badlands terrain, hiking trails, camping, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum
A museum dedicated to showcasing the rich fossil history of Montana, featuring exhibits of dinosaur fossils, minerals, and ancient artifacts.
Glendive Frontier Gateway Museum
A local history museum with exhibits on the town's pioneer era, Native American culture, and the development of the railroad.
Yellowstone River
Glendive is located along the Yellowstone River, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic walks along the riverbanks.
Cottonwood Country Club
A golf course situated in a picturesque setting with views of the Badlands and Yellowstone River, offering a challenging layout for golf enthusiasts.
Historic Downtown Glendive
Take a stroll through the downtown area to explore the historical architecture, unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries.
Glendive Public Library
The town's public library offers various resources, including a genealogy collection, and hosts community events and workshops.
Dawson Community College
Visitors can explore the campus and attend events like performing arts productions or sports games.
Annual Events
Glendive hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Eastern Montana Fair, Yellowstone River Breaks Rodeo, and the Dawson County Fair and Rodeo.
Paddlefishing
Glendive is known for its paddlefish caviar fishery, and visitors can book guided trips to try paddlefishing on the Yellowstone River in season.
Climate
Glendive, Montana, has a semi-arid climate, also known as a steppe climate. It experiences four distinct seasons.
Summer: Glendive has warm and occasionally hot summers. The average high temperatures in July, the warmest month, range from the mid-80s °F (around 30 °C) to low 90s °F (around 33-35 °C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach into the upper 90s °F (mid-30s °C) or even exceed 100 °F (38 °C) on rare occasions. Nights tend to cool down, with average lows in the 50s °F (around 13-15 °C). Thunderstorms are frequent during the summer months, bringing occasional rainfall.
Autumn: Autumn in Glendive is characterized by mild temperatures that gradually cool down. September sees average highs in the low to mid-70s °F (around 23-25 °C), while October cools to the mid-50s °F (around 12-13 °C). Nights become quite chilly, with lows dropping into the 30s °F (around 3-4 °C). Precipitation levels tend to decrease during these months.
Winter: Glendive experiences cold winters with occasional cold snaps. December and January are the coldest months, with average highs in the mid-20s to low 30s °F (around -3 to 1 °C). Overnight lows are often in the single digits °F (around -13 to -4 °C), sometimes even dropping below zero (-18 °C). Snowfall is common, with an average of around 25-30 inches (64-76 cm) annually. Be prepared for the occasional blizzard and wind chill factors during winter in Glendive.
Spring: Spring in Glendive is generally mild and can be quite variable. March sees average highs in the mid-40s °F (around 7 °C), gradually warming up to the mid-60s °F (around 18 °C) in May. Nighttime temperatures rise from below freezing to the mid-30s °F (around 1-3 °C). Spring can be quite windy as the weather transitions from winter to summer.
Overall, Glendive experiences a relatively dry climate with average annual precipitation of around 12-15 inches (30-38 cm). Summers can be hot and stormy, winters cold and snowy, while spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and transitional weather.
Neighborhoods
Glendive, Montana is a small town located in Dawson County in the eastern part of the state. Although it is a relatively small community, Glendive has a few distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Glendive:
Downtown Glendive
The heart of the town, Downtown Glendive, is the main commercial and historic area. Here, you'll find a range of local businesses, shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Downtown Glendive is also home to the Museum of the Plains, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
West Glendive
Located on the western side of Glendive, this neighborhood is predominantly residential. West Glendive offers a mix of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and small businesses. Residents of West Glendive enjoy a quieter atmosphere away from the town center.
East Glendive
Situated on the eastern side of Glendive, this neighborhood is primarily defined by industrial and commercial areas. East Glendive is home to many manufacturing, agriculture, and energy-related businesses. It also includes the Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum, a popular attraction for visitors interested in paleontology.
South Glendive
The South Glendive neighborhood is primarily a residential area, characterized by quiet streets and a suburban feel. It is home to several parks and recreational areas, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
North Glendive
North Glendive is a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is situated near the Yellowstone River and offers beautiful river views. This neighborhood is also home to the Glendive Medical Center and various medical facilities.
Riverside Park Area
Located along the Yellowstone River, the Riverside Park area is a scenic neighborhood known for its access to natural beauty. It offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and a boat ramp for recreational activities on the river.
Each neighborhood in Glendive has its own unique charm and amenities. Whether you prefer a historic downtown setting, a quiet residential area, or access to outdoor recreation, Glendive offers options for everyone.