Billings First Congregational Church 🇺🇸

When you visit downtown Billings, Montana, you can explore Billings First Congregational Church, the city's very first church of any Christian denomination. Established in 1882 back when Billings was just a tent city, this historic site offers you a unique window into the region's past. Today, the church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as an Open and Affirming United Church of Christ congregation. As you walk through the current building dedicated in 1957, you will discover fascinating historic details preserved from the original structure, including the 1889 Clinton H.

Meneely bell and a stained glass window designed after a J. K. Ralston painting. Music lovers and history enthusiasts will also appreciate seeing the landmark's massive Holtkamp pipe organ; expanded in 1982 to 44 ranks and 2,326 pipes, it stands as the largest pipe organ in Montana.

Beyond its rich history, the church continues to play an active role in the local community, housing an LGBTQ+ resource center operated by 406 Pride and hosting various civic initiatives. It is a welcoming, historic stopping point for anyone wanting to connect with the deep heritage and community spirit of Billings.

What to see at Billings First Congregational Church

• The largest pipe organ in Montana, featuring 44 ranks and 2,326 pipes
• Preserved historic details, including an 1889 Clinton H. Meneely bell
• A J. K. Ralston-inspired stained glass window saved from the original sanctuary
• Listing on the National Register of Historic Places as Billings' founding Christian church

Visiting tips

Take time to look for the stained glass window inside, which was lovingly saved and moved from the church's original 1883 structure.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Billings First Congregational Church is easy to reach on Billings’s public transport, and pairs naturally with ZooMontana and St. Patrick's Co-Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Billings travel guide.