Coulson (Boothill) Cemetery Park

Preserving a Chapter of Billings’ Early History

Coulson (Boothill) Cemetery Park, located near MetraPark in Billings, offers a powerful glimpse into the early and often turbulent years of Montana settlement.

Active from 1877 to 1884, the cemetery is the resting place of an estimated 130–150 individuals who lived and died during the brief but dramatic existence of the town of Coulson — Billings’ predecessor. The hilltop site is marked by a historic rock-and-mortar obelisk erected in 1922, inscribed simply: “Died, 1877–1882.”

Over time, the cemetery faced challenges including marker loss, infrastructure changes, and uncertainty around burial locations. In 2019, ground-penetrating radar research helped re-identify burial areas and strengthen protection efforts, providing greater clarity and respect for those interred there.

Restoration & Ongoing Stewardship

A community-led effort spearheaded by Dave Wanzenried and the Friends of Coulson (Boothill) Cemetery Park — in partnership with Our Montana, the Billings Community Foundation, and the Billings Parks, Recreation & Public Lands Department — has focused on restoring, upgrading, and maintaining the park while preserving its historic character.

Enhancements have included improved signage, interpretive planning, and the thoughtful relocation of historically significant markers to more accurate and respectful settings.

Today, the project has transitioned primarily into long-term maintenance and stewardship, ensuring the site remains protected and accessible for future generations.