About Us

Founded in 2008 and incorporated in 2011, the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Red Lodge, Montana, incorporating qualities of a historical focused organization located in a historic property and owning one of the few original operable Model 706 Yellowstone Park Buses. 

Our mission is to:

• historically preserve and/or restore to original operating condition a collection of all makes and models of motorized vehicles used by the National Parks prior to World War II;
• preserve historical materials related to the presence and operation of these vehicles;
• provide expertise and knowledge to other owners, museums, and interested parties; and, 
• share with others the importance and experience of these vehicles in the National Parks.

The historic building in which we showcase our original operable Yellowstone National Park vehicles and memorabilia is located in the historic commercial district of Red Lodge. The building sits on the main street of Red Lodge and is viewable by all who travel to and through the town. The building is primarily open to the public on weekends (late spring through early fall) and holidays, for special community events and by appointment. Individuals and groups are free to enter the building when open and view all that is showcased therein. There is no charge for entry.

We are an all volunteer organization. Donations received from the public are the primary source of income for maintaining the historic vehicles and for covering organizational operating expenses. Bus trips for families and groups up the scenic Beartooth Highway in an original Yellowstone Park bus is one way in which donations may be made. Information regarding these trips may be obtained by contacting us. 

• Donald Mueller, Board of Directors, President and Treasurer - “My passion for vintage Yellowstone Park buses and memorabilia began almost 30 years ago when our repair facility restored a 1936 White Model 706 Yellowstone Park bus for a private owner. In the early 2000’s we restored a 1938 White Model 706 Yellowstone Park bus that had been severely damaged when a building collapsed on it. We have repaired several other Yellowstone Park vehicles over the past several years. It gives me a great deal of pleasure to work on these iconic buses and to share them, as well as the history of transportation in Yellowstone Park, with anyone who is interested.”

• Richard “Dick” DeVille, Board of Directors - “When I was asked to join the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, I was delighted. Having grown up in Carbon County, I thought I would be able to contribute some of the history. Having an interest in old autos, I thought I could help with their maintenance and presentation to the public. I do not know what would make my retirement more fun.” 

• John Mueller, Board of Directors - “Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust and the history of Yellowstone Park, especially the “Yellow Buses” which have become an icon of Yellowstone Park, is a passion of mine. I have studied and researched the history of the park transportation system. For over four decades I have had hands-on expertise in woodworking and sheet metal fabrication. This experience has been used in the preservation and restoration of several Yellowstone buses for private collectors. As a member of Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, I have enjoyed being a presenter for several Montana museums and service clubs, as well as serving as an ambassador of this great history to the public.”

• Nick Schneider, Board of Directors - “My management and technical backgrounds allow me to be a contributing board member for Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust.”

• David Whitcomb, Board of Directors - “I welcomed the opportunity to join the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust as a Director to work with the group in preserving the old Yellowstone Buses and the family building I grew up in.”

• Sue Beery Agnew, Secretary - “It is my privilege to serve as Secretary for Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust, Inc. and to work together with this dedicated and progressive Board to preserve and share Montana’s history.”