Bob Richard will enlighten those who attend a free program Saturday, Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. on the history of the North Fork. Much of what he has done in the past and has published in his books show photos and points of interest as you drive along the North Fork. This program will dig deeper into the history of the people who owned the guest ranches along the North Fork. It will start by the Buffalo Bill Dam and go as far as the Forest Service boundaries and if time allows all the way to Pahaska.

The free event will also include an ice cream social.

Richard was born and raised along this highway and has been in love with this country for over 80 years. He has known most of the early day residents and has many fun stories to tell regarding their history.

Over 100 years ago, Teddy Roosevelt described the road between Cody and Yellowstone Park as “the most scenic 52 miles in America.” Many people agree, as millions have traveled this route to the park over the past 100 years only to catch a glimpse of the history. In 1903, the Forest Service built a forest road to the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. In 1908, the first horseless carriages entered the Shoshone National Forest. 

Travelers had to ford rivers 29 times between Cody and Pahaska Tepee. Richard's family, Frost and Richard local outfitters and guides, conducted tours from 1906-1936 up the North Fork and into Yellowstone. These tourists rode in 12 passenger coaches pulled by six-horse teams. Their luggage, tents and food followed in heavy camp wagons. By 1915, Yellowstone National Park allowed the first cars through the East Entrance. And by the 1930s, the Bureau of Public Roads constructed the North Fork Highway.