Montana Centenarians Share Stories From A Century Of Life

These Montanans Have Witnessed More Than 100 Years of History

Imagine the stories you could tell if you'd been around for more than 100 years.

Recently in Kalispell, 15 Montana centenarians were honored at a luncheon celebrating people who have lived through more than a century of changes under the Big Sky.

The Important Job Montana Women Took on During World War II

The luncheon was part of the Governor's Conference on Aging, which also included discussions about nutrition, caregiver support, and services for older Montanans and their families.

One of the honorees was 101-year-old Elizabeth "Betty" Stimac, who spent years working at railroad stations across central Montana and the Hi-Line. That work became especially important during World War II, when many of the men who worked on the railroads were drafted into military service.

"There was no telephones on the engine," Stimac explained. It was up to women like her to deliver train orders to railroad workers so they knew where to meet other trains.

Talk about a lot of responsibility, especially when you consider how we can communicate instantly with the push of a button today.

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More Than 40 Montana Centenarians Shared Their Stories

Another honoree, Blanche Garrett, celebrated her 100th birthday this year. As a teenager, she worked as a welder in a Portland shipyard.

Garrett said all the attention surrounding the celebration was a little overwhelming, but she was grateful to be surrounded by people who cared about her.

All told, more than 40 Montana centenarians shared their memories and advice with the state this year. They'll also receive a governor's proclamation recognizing their lives.

When you think about all the changes that have happened over the past century, not just here in Montana or across America, but around the world, it's pretty remarkable to hear the stories these folks have to tell.

Source: Montana Right Now