Thomas Alexander, 1856-1918

Thomas Alexander, 1856-1918. . The history of Forsyth depends heavily on two men - Thomas Alexander and Hiram Marcyes - very different individuals yet both dedicated to creative and aggressive growth. Thomas Alexander began as a pioneer sheep, cattle and horse rancher and prospector who also clerked at Fort Keogh and fought with General Howard. Alexander became a County Commissioner of the newly founded Rosebud County in 1901. , By theat time he was operating a general store and organized the first bank here, Merchants National Bank, and housed it in a unique stone building from stone quarried near Forsyth. He built the American Hotel, erected a town hall and built several large homes in addition to providing the land for the Northern Pacific Railroad Station. Meanwhile, he developed prosperous ranches. , Thomas Alexander was part of the Odd Fellows, the Elks and the Knights of Pythias. He served on the early School Board, and Alexander School was named for him. , To quote Progressive Men of Montana, "He has borne himself with conspicuous uprightness and manliness, and is everywhere regarded as one of Rosebud County's leading and most representative citizens."