Pike Family History
Our family's Montana legacy traces back to the Twedt migration from Minnesota, a history that spans continents and generations, anchored in Aslo, Norway. By the late 1800s, our ancestors established a prosperous dry goods store in Minneapolis in 1882, carving their place in the busy city. However, the allure of the Homestead Act of 1862 proved to be irresistible. Eager for change, my family ventured westward, drawn by the untamed beauty of Montana! The land that was assigned by the government was located in Intake, nestled between Glendive and Sydney. This was the American Dream—an opportunity filled with hope and a future they were determined to shape as Montanans in the wild West!
Intake, Montana, earned its reputation for resilient yet challenging terrain, with dry lands stubbornly suited for wheat and grass cultivation. In the face of these conditions, our family forged ahead, creating a self-sustaining farm that cared for chickens, cows, pigs, and horses. However, the early 20th century brought a dark chapter to our family's history—the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1919. This catastrophic period cast a shadow over the hope and vitality of the state, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Tragically, the outbreak claimed the life of my great-great-great grandfather in 1937, an event that profoundly impacted our family and tested our resilience in the midst of adversity.
The Great Depression brought both trials and triumphs to our family's door. While my great-grandfather worked in West Glendive as a mechanic, his heart remained in Intake at the homestead, where he returned, braving hardships, to mend the family's trucks and farming equipment. Meanwhile, the women were carving their own paths. My great-grandmother's determination led her to pursue higher education at Western (Dillon), where she started on a journey, working as a housekeeper at an B&B to fund her teaching degree. Her return to Intake as the lead teacher at the local schoolhouse not only educating children but also represented as a role model for young women in the face of challenging times.
Lives lived with hope, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the land we called home. May their stories be a beacon, guiding us through the winds of change, reminding us that, in the heart of Montana, the Pike family legacy endures!
Grandma Carol and her Family in front of the Lutheran Church
