1. In 1869, the first railroad train arrived in the town of Helena, marking the beginning of a new era of transportation and commerce for the city and the state of Montana.

2. In 1879, Montana's first public library was founded in Helena, with a collection of over 1,000 books donated by residents of the city.

3. In 1899, the University of Montana was established in Missoula, becoming the first institution of higher education in the state.

4. In 1934, Montana's first national park, Glacier National Park, was established, providing a new destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

5. In 1972, Montana became the first state in the nation to hold a major election by mail-in ballot, a practice that has since been adopted by many states across the country.