Odyssey: The Montana Centennial Train, 1964-1965

Created by boosters, the Montana Territorial Centennial Train of 1964-1965 was the focal point of the state's centennial celebration. It toured 16 cities and stayed on the tracks at the New York World's Fair for two years, providing Montana media exposure and publicity that would be felt for many years. The organizer, one Howard Kelsey, wanted to promote awareness of Montana by taking the state to the people via a train loaded with 300 Montanans who would serve as ambassadors for the state. As the ambitious project grew in complexity it became a political issue during the gubernatorial election year of 1964. The story makes for a captivating documentary.