Photos courtsey of Western Heritage Center

A New Chapter at the Western Heritage Center

While the galleries at the Western Heritage Center are now closed for the season, there’s plenty of meaningful news to share from this beloved downtown museum. After a year of reflection and transition, the Center is stepping into its next chapter with the appointment of a new Executive Director and a clear vision for the future.

The Western Heritage Center recently welcomed Becky Jeter as its new Executive Director. Her arrival comes nearly a year after the sudden passing of longtime director Kevin Kooistra, whose passion for local history and storytelling left a lasting mark on the organization and the community he served. Becky brings both preservation and fundraising experience to the role, along with a deep respect for the foundation Kevin built.

Becky earned her Master of Arts in Historic Preservation from Colorado State University before marrying an active-duty U.S. Air Force officer. For the next 25 years, she supported her family through assignments around the world, all while continuing to nurture her love of history through volunteering, research, and visits to historic sites wherever life took her. When she and her family eventually landed in Billings, Becky quickly became involved in the community by joining the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. It was there that she first met Kevin Kooistra, a connection she remembers fondly.

“Every meeting was a chance to hear a fascinating story or local history tidbit,” Becky shared. “He truly was a treasure.”

Her vision for the Western Heritage Center focuses on honoring what the community already loves while finding new ways to bring people into the historic space. That includes continuing the popular programs Kevin began and making even greater use of the museum’s iconic home, the former Parmly Billings Memorial Library, for community involvement and connection.

“I feel honored for the opportunity to lead the Western Heritage Center into exciting new times,” Becky said. “We have an encouraging, supportive Board and a smart, creative staff who make coming to work so enjoyable. The staff is diligently working on several compelling exhibits for 2026. We are striving to continue with the top-notch traditions our community loves, while providing fresh new experiences as well.”

Although the museum is closed for the winter months, the team is already hard at work behind the scenes, planning for the 2026 season. When the Western Heritage Center reopens in March, visitors can expect thoughtfully curated exhibits, engaging programs, and new opportunities to connect with the stories of the Yellowstone River Valley.

The Western Heritage Center is a regional museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of life in the Yellowstone River Valley through exhibits, collections, and educational programming. Located at 2822 Montana Avenue in downtown Billings, the building itself is a piece of history. The former Parmly Billings Memorial Library, a Richardson Romanesque landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adds a sense of place and permanence to every visit.

While the doors are temporarily closed, the story is far from paused. Follow the Western Heritage Center on Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and announcements about upcoming exhibits and reopening details. The 2026 season is already shaping up to be one worth the wait.

Stay Updated

Looking for new exhibits? Check out their Facebook page for updates: Western Heritage Center on Facebook

The Western Heritage Center is located at 2822 Montana Avenue, Billings, Montana 59101

2025 Exhibitions at the Western Heritage Center

Step into the past and explore the rich, untold stories of the Yellowstone River Valley at the Western Heritage Center’s 2025 exhibitions. From the experiences of people living with disabilities and the artistic expressions of Empowered heARTS to the vibrant traditions of Billings’ Hispanic community and the dark tales of regional crime, these exhibits bring history to life in engaging and thought-provoking ways.

July at the Western Heritage Center

This July, trade the heat for history and spend a day exploring powerful stories, colorful culture, and captivating exhibits at the Western Heritage Center. From true crime and tribal history to art, architecture, and fiesta traditions, there’s something new around every corner.

August at the Western Heritage Center

This August, trade the heat for history and spend a day exploring powerful stories, colorful culture, and captivating exhibits at the Western Heritage Center. From tribal history to art, architecture, and photographs, there’s something new around every corner.

September at the Western Heritage Center

Discover Billings’ history this September at the Western Heritage Center. From powerful exhibits to cemetery tours and walking history talks, every visit brings the past to life.

October at the Western Heritage Center

Step inside the Western Heritage Center this October and experience Montana’s history through art, photography, and powerful storytelling. From the lived experiences of Montanans with disabilities to the creative triumph of artist Cliff Potts and the timeless photography of Joseph Henry Sharp, these exhibits capture the heart of our state’s past and present.

December at the Western Heritage Center

Step inside the Western Heritage Center this November and experience Montana’s history through art, photography, and powerful storytelling. From the lived experiences of Montanans with disabilities to the creative triumph of artist Cliff Potts and the timeless photography of Joseph Henry Sharp, these exhibits capture the heart of our state’s past and present.