History of the General Custer Hotel, Billings, Montana

The General Custer Hotel has anchored downtown Billings since the railroad era.

Origins (1911)

• Built by Northern Pacific Railway.
• Named for Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer (killed 1876 at Little Bighorn, ~100 mi southeast).
• Architects: Parkinson & Bergstrom (also designed LA Union Station, Portland Hotel).
• Beaux‑Arts, 7‑story brick/stone; marble lobby, stained‑glass dome, ballroom.

Sheraton Era (1923‑1984)

Operated as Sheraton‑General Custer Hotel; hosted dignitaries, conventions, and railroad crews.

Decline & Revival

• 1984: Sold to private owner; closed mid‑80s.
• 1985: Listed on National Register of Historic Places.
• Early 1990s: Major renovation → reopened as bed‑and‑breakfast.
• Present: Owned by Billings Hotel Group; operates as boutique hotel/event venue.

Significance

Symbolizes Billings’ origin as a railroad hub and its preservation ethic. The lobby’s original fixtures remain a popular backdrop for weddings and history tours.