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History of Billings, Montana, USA
Journey back in time to Billings, Montana, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Billings, Montana, USA.
About Billings
Just south of Billings, Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his troops made their last stand. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument features the Plains Indians and United States military involved in the historic battle.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to BILLINGS

MONTANA - Buffalo Burger, Huckleberries and Butte Pasties - I LOVE Montana! - Ceramic Mug
Introducing our Montana-inspired Ceramic Mug: a tribute to the incredible flavors and breathtaking landscapes of Montana! This Buffalo Burger, Huckleberries, and Butte Pasties-themed mug is a must-have for anyone who loves the Big Sky State.

MONTANA Survival Mug: Fly Fishing, Whiskey, and Winter Wisdom
Unleash your inner Montanan with our ceramic mug, proudly boasting the caption: "I'm from Montana! That explains a lot about my love for fly fishing and my ability to survive winter with a flask of whiskey." This mug isn't just a beverage holder; it's a declaration of rugged spirit and outdoor passion. Perfect for anyone who knows that the best way to handle a chilly morning is with a strong coffee—and maybe a little something extra.
Discover Billings: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Billings through the years.
Among the drowned is JOHN STAFFELL, a Montana pioneer. He was dragged to his death by three young girls, who seized him when the boat overturned, and perished with him. They were PRESSIE WEST, aged 16; MINNIE TAGGONER, aged 15; and a child of 6, not identified.
Although the craft was capable of safely bearing but three persons, eight picnickers, under the guidance of MR. STAFFELL, got into the boat, and when it was about 150 feet from the bank the 15-year-old daughter of J. C. Bland leaned over the side of the boat, causing it to ship water. This frightened the girl, and with a scream she leaped from her seat into the water, capsizing the boat and throwing all into the swirling current, which quickly bore them into midstream.
The Bland girl managed to cling to the boat and was rescued, ...
The dead woman was MRS. N. S. McKAY, Bismarck, N.D. The injured were N. S. McKAY, husband of the dead woman, suffering from bruises and shock, and W. J. TISDALE, Slocum, British Columbia, suffering from a minor head injury and bruises.
Pilot WALT BULLOCK and Co-Pilot L. S. DOAN and five other passengers on the plane, P. S. BRISLAWN, Wallace, Idaho; C. V. GARY, Chicago; W. C. BELLENGER, Bremerton, Wash.; A. L. NEIMEYER, representative of the Department of Commerce, Seattle, Wash.; and G. B. TUSSUM, Billings, were not injured.
The plane, one of the line's new twin-motored Lockheed "Zephyrs" took off from the airport at 2:35 a.m. (P.S.T.) It gained an altitude of 1,000 feet and headed northeast into the wind. Then it plunged to earth.
The craft seemed to stall...
Explore the Pictograph Cave State Park to see ancient rock paintings and learn about the Native American history of the region.
ZooMontana:
Spend a day at ZooMontana, home to a variety of animals, beautiful gardens, and educational exhibits.
Moss Mansion:
Visit the Moss Mansion, a historic house museum that provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of early 20th-century Montana.
Yellowstone Art Museum:
Check out the Yellowstone Art Museum for a dose of contemporary and regional art.
Billings Depot:
Attend events or just admire the architecture at the Billings Depot, a historic train station turned event venue.
Western Heritage Center:
Discover the rich history of the Yellowstone River Valley and the Northern Plains at the Western Heritage Center.
Swords Rimrock Park:
Hike or drive to the top of Swords Rimrock Park for panoramic views of Billings and the surrounding landscapes.
The Rimrocks:
Explore the natural ...
Discover YOUR Roots: Billings Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Billings through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Billings, Montana, USA
We currently have information about 10 ancestors who were born or died in Billings.
View ancestors by year of birthSearch Billings Genealogy
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Discussion & Local Contributions
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