1. On October 17, 1910, the town of Roundup was founded in central Montana. The town was named for the nearby Roundup coal mines and quickly grew into a bustling community.
2. In 1931, the Montana State Capitol building in Helena was completed on October 17. The building boasts a neoclassical design and is considered one of the most impressive state capitol buildings in the country.
3. On October 17, 1955, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the Helena area, causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. Although there were no fatalities, the earthquake was felt throughout western Montana.
4. In 1977, the first ever "Montana History Conference" was held in Bozeman on October 17. The conference aimed to promote the study and preservation of Montana's rich history and culture.
5. On October 17, 1981, the University of Montana's football team defeated rival Montana State in the 95th edition of the "Brawl of the Wild" rivalry game. The game ended in a final score of 21-12, with the Grizzlies improving their all-time record against the Bobcats to 44 wins, 36 losses, and 5 ties.