A popular outfitter and guide on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation is trying to get back on his feet after a fire destroyed his home and business last month.
Alger Swingley, owner and operator of Blackfeet Outfitters, said the Nov. 20 fire destroyed everything he owns, but he vowed to be up and running again by next spring. His son, Jeremy Swingley, has set up a GoFundMe account that is currently raising money to help rebuild the business.
“My home and shop went up in smoke in less than 10 minutes,” Swingley said. “I never thought I would lose it all in one shot.”
According to Swingley, the electrical fire at his home near Babb began sometime after 12 a.m. on Nov. 20. Swingley said his dog’s barking woke him up and, when he went into the living room to determine what was wrong, he saw thick black smoke pouring out of an electrical outlet. Swingley tried to put out of the fire himself, but quickly realized it was spreading out of control. Swingley said flames engulfed the entire house within five minutes.
Because of the remote location of Swingley’s home, it took nearly 40 minutes for the nearby volunteer fire department to arrive. By the time they did, the home was a total loss. Along with his home and shop, Swingley lost four vehicles, three four-wheelers, three snowmobiles, a boat, two rafts and all of his saddles, much of which is used for his outfitting business. A lot of the equipment was not insured.
Swingley is currently living with a friend, but he plans on moving into one of his outfitter’s cabins once water is connected to the building.
To make a donation to Swingley, visit www.GoFundMe.com/Swingley. People can also make donations to cover some building materials at Pro Build, 826 NW Bypass, Great Falls, Montana 59404. The account number is 738250.