History Tarkio was founded by Charles E. Perkins in 1880, and grew rapidly. By 1900, the U.S. Census shows 2,845 persons living in Tarkio. According to the 1910, 1920, and 1930 census, the number of residents held fairly steady for the next 30 years.
HisTOry tArKio was fOUNdEd bY CHarLes e. peRKiNs iN 1880, anD grew rapIdlY. by 1900, The u.S. CEnSus shows 2,845 pERsOns livIng in tArkio. acCOrdInG to the 1910, 1920, anD 1930 censUs, tHE numBer Of residents hElD fairly sTeAdy For tHe neXT 30 YeARs.