Jerry's Saloon

Rocky Gorge Camp to Fortine, MT July 3, 2009 - We headed out for another 50 mile ride to Fortine. The big issue for the day is where we will camp due to both distance and availability of camp space. The ride was hilly yet again with both steep climbs and great down hills. We decided during the day, after several phone calls, that we would try to find a place in Fortine to stay. The only action in Fortine was Jerry's Saloon, Fortine, a town of 160 had limited services. At Jerry's Saloon Art was able to negotiate with the owner (who is not named Jerry) for use of a nice piece of ground next to the bar. There were no showers so many of us went down to the local swimming hole and took a very cold dip in the river. Afterward we heard the story of Jerry. It seems that one night while asleep Jerry heard noises down at the bar which was only about 50 yards from his house, Jerry called the sheriff, got his gun and went to investigate. It seems as though Jerry thought he found the burglar and shot at him, the other party returned fire. Unfortunately Jerry shot at the sheriff and the sheriff returned fire killing Jerry. The would be burglar got away. Despite other stories of drinking, fighting and shooting we had a peaceful night in Fortine.