Railroad
Northern Pacific Reaches Clark City—Soon Livingston, 1882
Livingston, Park County
On November 22, 1882, the Northern Pacific Railroad officially reached Clark City on the Yellowstone River. The boom camp—named for contractor Heman Clark—had sprouted that summer near Benson’s Landing as track gangs pushed west.
The railroad had already surveyed a different townsite a short distance away and named it for director Johnston Livingston. Within weeks residents bought lots, moved buildings, and watched Clark City fade into bog and memory as Livingston took the shops, the division point, and the gateway traffic to Yellowstone National Park.
November 22 marks the day steel arrived—and the day the future Park County seat began to eclipse its temporary twin.
Frequently asked questions
What happened on November 22 in Montana history?
Northern Pacific Reaches Clark City—Soon Livingston, 1882. On November 22, 1882, the Northern Pacific Railroad officially reached Clark City on the Yellowstone River. The boom camp—named for contractor Heman Clark—had sprouted that summer near Benson’s Landing as track gangs pushed west.
Where did this take place?
This November 22 event is associated with Livingston, Park County.
When did this event happen?
It took place in 1882, on November 22.
Why does this day matter in Montana history?
November 22 marks the day steel arrived—and the day the future Park County seat began to eclipse its temporary twin.
Topics: Northern Pacific · Livingston · Clark City · Yellowstone · 1882