Location: Helena, Lewis and Clark County
On January 5, 1981, Theodore 'Ted' Schwinden was sworn in as the 19th Governor of Montana. Born in Roosevelt County on his family's farm, Schwinden was a World War II veteran who served in both the European and Pacific theaters. Before his governorship, he was a member of the Montana House of Representatives and served as Lieutenant Governor under Thomas Lee Judge. During his two terms as governor, from 1981 to 1989, Schwinden was known for his 'Build Montana' economic plan and his popular 'Capital for a Day' events, which brought state government closer to the people. He guided Montana through economic difficulties and was recognized for his open and attentive approach to public concerns. Schwinden chose not to seek a third term, honoring his promise to serve only two. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 98.