WEST GLACIER HISTORY

Once you see West Glacier Village, you’ll think time has stood still in this remote corner of Montana. The log buildings here were constructed in 1938 and they haven’t changed much since. Visitors who return are always delighted to find things just the way they used to be. We often overhear people telling their children, “I sat on this bench when I was your age.”

Glacier National Park was essentially closed during World War II. In 1946, the Lundgren family and Dave Thompson purchased West Glacier Mercantile, which consisted of the main buildings in West Glacier. Several structures have been added over time, but the character and charm of a scenic mountain village still remains.

In 1987, the West Glacier Mercantile Company was awarded a Special Commendation from the U.S. Department of the Interior for “sheltering and protecting the West Entrance of Glacier National Park from inappropriate development” and for maintaining the village’s historic character. West Glacier Mercantile takes great pride in preserving this special place.