1. In 1870, the first recorded hanging of a criminal in Montana took place on August 9. George Ives, a notorious outlaw and member of the infamous "Henry Plummer gang," was executed in Bannack for his role in numerous murders and robberies.

2. On August 9, 1904, the world's first round-the-world automobile race began in New York City. The route included a stop in Helena, Montana, where the drivers were greeted by crowds of enthusiastic onlookers.

3. The Montana State Fair officially opened on August 9, 1916, in Helena. The fair featured a wide range of attractions, including livestock exhibits, carnival games, and live music.

4. In 1943, a massive forest fire broke out in western Montana on August 9, burning over 175,000 acres of land and destroying numerous homes and buildings. Known as the "Mann Gulch fire," it remains one of the deadliest wildfires in state history, claiming the lives of 13 firefighters.

5. August 9, 1975, marked the opening of Montana's first commercial ski resort, Big Sky Resort. Located in the scenic Gallatin Range, the resort boasts over 5,800 skiable acres and is considered one of the top ski destinations in the country.