1. On July 11, 1806, explorer Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark expedition made his way through what is now Montana, stopping at a spot near present-day Great Falls. He noted the area's abundant wildlife, including bison and bears.

2. In 1887, the first issue of the Helena Independent newspaper was published on July 11. The paper became known for its coverage of Montana politics and was a key source of news in the state for many years.

3. In 1915, a forest fire broke out near the town of Red Lodge on July 11. The fire spread quickly, destroying homes and buildings in the area. Despite the efforts of firefighters and local residents, the fire raged for days and burned thousands of acres of forest.

4. On July 11, 1934, the Montana State Capitol building in Helena was dedicated. The building, which had been under construction for more than a decade, was designed in the neoclassical style and features a distinctive copper dome.

5. In 1960, Montana became the first state to have a female governor when Democrat Judy Martz was elected on July 11. Martz served as governor from 2001 to 2005 and was known for her efforts to boost the state's economy and promote tourism.