History of Eagle's Store in Timeline

Eagle's Store, a historic three-story log building in West Yellowstone, Montana, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Founded in 1908 and rebuilt in 1927, it stands in Rustic architectural style just two blocks from Yellowstone National Park's west entrance. As the oldest operating business in West Yellowstone, it has been continuously run by the same founding family, highlighting its historical significance and enduring entrepreneurial spirit.

1907: Railroad Construction

Between 1905 and 1907, the Union Pacific Railroad constructed its Oregon Short Line segment to the West Gate of Yellowstone Park, increasing tourism.

June 1908: Forest Service Survey and Permits

In June 1908, the Forest Service surveyed a six-block townsite on the western boundary of Yellowstone Park and issued business permits on one-acre plots, including one to Samuel Peter Eagle.

1908: Stuart Leaves Partnership

In 1908, Alex Stuart left the partnership with Eagle to open his own business.

1908: Original store established

In 1908, the original Eagle's Store was established on the site in West Yellowstone, Montana.

1909: Post Office Located in Eagle's Store

From 1909, the local post office was located in Eagle's Store, with Sam Eagle as the postmaster.

1909: Yellowstone Hotel Opens

In 1909, L.A. Murray opened the Yellowstone Hotel.

1910: Soda Fountain added

In 1910, Eagle's Store added a white marble soda fountain manufactured by the Liquid Carbonic Company of Minnesota for $1391.80.

1910: Stuart Buys Arnet's Store

In 1910, Stuart bought the lease to Arnet's store.

1913: Store Enlargement

In 1913, Eagle enlarged the original store.

1916: Introduction of the automobile

In 1916, the introduction of the automobile brought more visitors to Yellowstone Park, causing business to flourish and turning West Yellowstone into a permanent town.

1927: Construction Began

In 1927, construction began on the current Eagle's Store structure, designed by Fred F. Willson.

1927: Original store razed

In 1927, the original Eagle's Store building was razed to make room for a new structure.

1930: Wider Selection of Merchandise

Following the construction of its new building in 1930, Eagle's store began to offer a wider selection of merchandise and services.

1930: Construction Completed

The current Eagle's Store structure, designed by Fred F. Willson, was completed in 1930.

1935: Post Office Relocation

In 1935, the local post office was relocated from Eagle's Store.

1950: Death of Sam Eagle

Sam Eagle, one of the founders of Eagle's store, died in 1950.

1962: Death of Ida Christine Carlson

Ida Christine Carlson, wife of Sam Eagle, died in 1962.

2010: Heather McPhie Competes in Olympics

In 2010, Heather McPhie, a great-granddaughter of Sam and Ida Eagle, competed in the Winter Olympics in Vancouver as a skier.

2012: Store Merchandise in 2012

As of 2012, Eagle's Store sells sportswear, western wear, hiking and backpacking gear, fishing tackle, Native American arts and crafts, and souvenirs.