Early inhabitants of the region were fond of its multitudes of wild game and other natural resources. According to legend, the native Indians of the area, drawn to the basin for its vast quantities of buffalo, deer, elk and other food and life sustaining stock, gave the area their own meaning, "Ah-Ki-Ne-Kun-Scoo," “Snow Hole.”

James Fergus, for whom the county was named, along with men such as Granville Stuart, Francis Juneaux and many untold others gave stability to this fledging community. Civic pride was established, along with a determination that left our town with a rich cultural history. Stories of individual strengths and the determination in the settlement of our town lie with its citizen's that chose to endure and persevere within this “Snow Hole.”



As important as the vast cattle and agricultural concerns were in the Judith Basin, another leading wealth building scenerio was taking place.