In late May, The Billings Gazette published a story covering the reclamation project at Coulson Boothill Cemetery. For 50 years, the steel sign pictured here was located on the upper level of the cemetery site. However, the location wasn’t ideal since it was out of view and not many people knew it was there.
Not anymore!
Thanks to history enthusiasts Dave Wanzenried and Bruce W. Larson, who took on the project of refurbishing and finding a permanent place for this sign, more Earl Guss Park visitors will know the significance of “Sacrifice Cliff” as a historic Native American site.
In August, a contractor moved and installed it on a new mount (pictured here) located on the parking lot level.
“Given its size and location,” Dave tells us, “it would have cost a fortune to remove it!”
So, the old concrete mount (left) will serve as the centerpiece of an information kiosk. The first addition to the kiosk will be a sign (right) commemorating the site being placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Another sign, one erected in 1992 to commemorate the story of an act of self-sacrifice by Crow warriors, who were grieving the loss of loved ones during the smallpox epidemic in 1837-1838, was damaged by a windstorm about a year ago.
Additional instillations in 2024 include two park benches, several directional signs and a flagpole honoring veterans buried in the cemetery.
Our trail system is unique in that it connects people to places which have historic significance. Hence, why it’s called the Heritage Trail! As community members and visitors use our trails, they can learn about our community’s history. Thank you again to all the hardworking volunteers who have dedicated so much time to this project.
Article content and photos provided by Dave Wanzenried