PHOTOS: A look back at the first edition of the Bigfork Eagle
TAYLOR INMAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 4 months AGO
The first edition of the Bigfork Eagle was published on Dec. 15, 1976. The paper had not yet been named, but readers wrote in their suggestions on a cut out that was included at the bottom of the front page. After a couple of editions, the name "Bigfork Eagle" was officially chosen. (Taylor Inman/Bigfork Eagle)
Viking Bill Dontigny heads for the hoop with Fred Hansen ready to follow up. During this 1976 season, Bigfork beat Eureka twice the previous weekend. (photo courtesy of Glacier Herald)
Bigfork's Lloyd Hall eyes the basket in the Vikes' win over Eureka. (photo courtesy of Glacier Herald)
Swan River School, the first meeting place of the Lutheran congregation (photo courtesy of Lloyd Hockerson and Henry Marken)
The old Bethany Lutheran Church, built in 1919 and moved in 1961. (photo courtesy of Lloyd Hockerson and Henry Marken)
Baby Ryan DeBruin appears slightly disturbed with a fishy friend, and he should be. The Flathead Mack outweighs Ryan by 16 to 18 pounds. (photo courtesy of Ross Dunnigan)
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley. IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. | January 10, 2023 11:00 PM
The first edition of the Bigfork Eagle was published on Dec. 15, 1976. The paper had not yet been named, but readers wrote in their suggestions on a cut out that was included at the bottom of the front page. After a couple of editions, the name "Bigfork Eagle" was officially chosen.
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