Darby was established in the early 1800’s. The area became a good place for a store and post office due to the increase in logging and ranching in this area. The railroad was soon extended to Darby. Darby was named in 1888 by its Postmaster James Darby who consulted no one about what the town should be named. (Earlier names were Doolittle and Harrison). Darby has survived three fires that destroyed its main street. The ups and downs of its economy have affected Darby’s growth. First it was the mining and fur trading that slowed, then in the early 1900’s came a logging boom for Anaconda Mining Company interests. The "Apple Boom" was also during this time. Next came the steady growth of agriculture, cattle ranching and the timber industry.

In the early 1900's surveys were begun for the Bitterroot Irrigation District using Lake Como, which is directly west of Darby. Rock Creek is the main source of water for the lake and a dam was built at the outlet to impound the runoff water to be used for irrigation. The lake with the dam holds approximately 34,000 square feet of water.

Lake Como, has had many names over the years. The Indian name for the lake translated to the 'Lake of the White Moose'. For many years there was an albino moose that stayed around the lake. Another name commonly used by hunters and trappers was Rock Creek Lake. They referred to the lake as a 'place little known except by hunters and trappers".

Darby has changed over the years from a sleepy little town, to a thriving little community. Its unique shops and friendly people make this town one of the valley's best places to visit.

Going north from Darby we follow the Bitterroot River with its numerous dams and ditches that irrigate the floor of the valley. We come to Sleeping Child Creek. There are a number of stories as to how this area received its name, however, they all agree that it was named by the Indians. They left a child there near a hot springs while hunting, gathering berries or preparing for battle. Our story was that it should have been named weeping child, as it was weeping and not sleeping when they returned.

Annual Events:

Third weekend in August – Darby Fun Days.
Take a drive through the scenic Bitterroot Valley and enjoy the view of mountains and river on your way to ‘Celebrating Community' Darby's 13th annual Darby Fun Day that includes a 1-mile, 5K, and 12K fun runs (starting at Lake Como), parade, community market, live entertainment, evening dance, kids' games and events for the whole family. A deep-pit BBQ is offered as well as a variety of refreshments, plus great specials from local businesses.

Third weekend in July – Darby Strawberry Festival.
The Strawberry Festival old-fashioned ice cream social. Music is provided by local musicians. Enjoy angel food cake with strawberries and ice cream. Raffle items usually include a handmade quilt, a deacon's bench full of food, a gift certificate for $500.00, a handmade elk horn knife and a hand made quilt. This is the annual fundraiser for the Darby Volunteer Fire Department.

Third weekend in July – Darby Logger Days.
This is an annual event for Darby, with many old fashioned logging competitions. This event has become bigger every year and is one you will not want to miss.

Bitterroot Valley Communities: