MEMORY LANE
SiG
MT
43
Ira Myers
E.G. McClay
T.C. Collins
is was so aggravating to Ira Myers, an early seler
of Great Falls, that he decided to do something about
a problem that was inhibiting the future progress of the
lile town. Myers discussed the problem with those
who could invest in a city water system. He talked with
Paris Gibson—founder of Great Falls—who was at first
hesitant but quickly changed his mind because he saw
that for the health of the residents, a water system was
needed. e two decided that $35,000 was required to
get them started. On the spot, Myers pledged $5000 as
did Gibson. Later T. C. Collins, who had built a mansion
on a westside hill, and E. G. McClay, who was part owner
of the Murphy McClay Hardware store, pledged the
same amount. Next Myers upped his pledge to $7000.
A meeting of businessmen was held to see if they would
pledge the additional $13,000 collectively. e pledge
drive was unsuccessful, but that didn't deter Myers.
His next idea was to incorporate the town—which
was accomplished in 1888--to elect city officials, get
permission from the city council to create a franchise,
and sell water bonds back East to build a really sound
water system for $150,000. A franchise was granted for
twenty years to e Great Falls Water Company owned
by Myers, McClay, and Collins.
Photo
Courtesy
of
History
Museum
Photo
Courtesy
of
History
Museum
Photo
Courtesy
of
History
Museum
Several roof lines on the water treatment filter
building indicates that the treatment plant has
been expanded at different times over the years.
