Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust receives grant from Montana History Foundation
This article originally appeared in the Laurel Outlook. The Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust received a $10,000 grant from the Montana History Foundation for the exterior restoration of the stucco on the historic building in which the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust showcase original operating pre-World War II vehicles used in Yellowstone National Park.
The Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust is pleased to announce it has received a $10,000 grant from the Montana History Foundation. These funds will support the exterior restoration of the stucco on the historic building in which the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust showcase original operating pre-World War II vehicles used in Yellowstone National Park.
The historic building was built in 1936 by A.D. Whitcomb and is the site of one of the oldest, if not the oldest, service stations that operated continuously in the State of Montana. The restoration of the building is being done in accordance with an Architectural Assessment performed by a Preservation Architect in early 2020. The assessment provided a comprehensive assessment of the building in its current condition and a detailed roadmap for future restoration efforts. Restoration of the exterior stucco due to cracking is one of the tasks identified in the assessment.
“The exterior restoration of the stucco on the building will preserve and protect this important landmark contributing to the character of the Red Lodge Commercial Historic District which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic building and vehicles housed therein exemplifies the cultural attractions that draw tourists to Montana and is a valuable component to the economy of Red Lodge. The funds provided by the Montana History Foundation will go a long ways towards preserving and sharing with others an important part of our past,” says Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust President, Donald Mueller.
The Montana History Foun dation awarded 21 grants across the state, totaling $128,700 in grants for preservation in 2021. This year marked the 10th year of the History Foundation’s grants program. “Ten years of making grants is an incredible milestone in preserving Montana history – but it’s one that could not be reached without those who are doing the work,” says History Foundation President/CEO Charlene Porsild. “All across the state, those who share a love of Montana and its past are working hard to make sure this legacy lasts well into the future.” Since 2012, the Foundation has invested more than $1 million in over 260 community-based history projects across the state.