Screenings currently planned:

• Thursday, January 22^nd at the Center for the Arts in Jackson, Wyoming

• Thursday, April 9^th at the Shane Center in Livingston, Montana

Stay tuned for more screening dates! See the film trailer below. Learn more about the Yellowstone Cougar Project here.

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Excerpt from the score for “Yellowstone” by Gene Quaw

When most people think of a library, they imagine shelves lined with books, DVDs, CDs, and periodicals. At the Yellowstone Research Library, however, our collection extends beyond the expected—we also house a small but unique collection of sheet music, all inspired by Yellowstone National Park.

This collection spans piano and vocal works to concert band suites and marches. Most of the music is housed in archival boxes in the main stacks, with one additional box in the Rare Book Room and a number of photocopies filed in our vertical files. While modest in size, this collection captures a fascinating slice of Yellowstone’s cultural history.

One highlight from the collection is the piano and vocal score for “Yellowstone” by Gene Quaw. Born in Bozeman, Montana, Quaw was a band leader who performed with his orchestra at the Canyon Hotel during the 1920s and 30s. His concerts featured a mix of classical standards but always closed with his own composition, “Yellowstone.”

The piece became a familiar sound to hotel guests, and copies of the sheet music were even available for purchase at the Canyon Hotel News Stand. Programs from the era document its popularity, offering a glimpse into the soundtrack of a Yellowstone evening nearly a century ago.

At the same time Quaw’s orchestra was entertaining guests, Yellowstone employees were creating their own musical traditions. Grace Johnson and Donald Midgley, both employees at Canyon Lodge, collaborated on a series of songs performed for lodge guests.

Johnson typically wrote both the music and lyrics, while Midgley handled the arrangements. Together, they produced playful and heartfelt pieces such as “Rotten Logging,” “Off to Yellowstone,” and “Love Began in Yellowstone.” Each of these works, written for piano and voice, reflects the experiences and camaraderie of park staff during the 1920s and 30s.

Excerpt from the score for “Off to Yellowstone” by Grace Johnson and arranged by Donald Midgley

Beyond music created and performed in the park, Yellowstone has inspired countless composers and musicians nationwide. The Research Library has gathered many of these works, including:

• “Yellowstone Suite” for concert band by John Klein

• “Sunset in the Yellowstone: Reverie,” a piano piece by Henry S. Sawyer

• “Yellowstone Trail March” by Karl King, a prolific American bandmaster

Score for the 1st B-flat Clarinet part of “Yellowstone Trail” by Karl King

These pieces demonstrate Yellowstone’s influence as a muse—not just for visitors and employees, but for artists who may never have performed in the park yet felt its grandeur through music.

Curious about what else we have? You can browse our full list of sheet music through the library catalog. All materials are available for in-library use, though items from the Rare Book Collection require advance arrangements.

For more information—or to plan a visit—please contact us at yell_research_library@nps.gov.

The post Music of the Park appeared first on Yellowstone Forever.

1917 Touring Vehicle used in Yellowstone National Park in storage in Yellowstone’s Museum Collection, YELL106383

The vehicle pictured here is a 1917 touring car that was modified into a two-seat general-purpose utility vehicle. Several modifications have been made to this truck; the original body was removed, the chassis shortened, and several parts were cannibalized for use with a 11-passenger open touring bus while being operated by TW Services. One of our staff’s favorite details is the sticker on the windshield that reads “Talking to driver prohibited”.

From December to January 2023-24, our team worked tirelessly to clean the grease, dirt, and dust from the truck. We used a variety of products to carefully clean away excess grime, but not the history of the vehicle.

Starting out, the grille was already disconnected from the vehicle, so it was cleaned separately by one determined staff member. She spent several days working solely on cleaning each individual hole with a small cotton swab and some mineral spirits.

While the grille was being deep cleaned, other staff started cleaning the body of the vehicle with a vacuum and small attachments designed specifically for conservation cleaning. When addressing the dust on the seats and other areas with fabric/vinyl, a mesh mat was used to ensure the integrity of the material while still pulling dust particles. This part of the cleaning process is incredibly important, as these vehicles are comprised of more wood parts than one might imagine, and we were only treating the wood with the vacuums.

Once that was completed, we addressed the metal components. For most of the parts we used a two-step cleaning process; we gently rubbed away dirt and dust with a mixture of vulpex and mineral spirits, followed by a round of just mineral spirits to remove any residue and remaining dirt. The engine hood was removed to allow for internal cleaning of that piece and the engine itself. What the team found was a great deal of grease on the metal which required a different solution.

Engine hood laying open, halfway through cleaning, YELL 106383

We used small brushes, rags, and many rounds of simple green to remove as much grease as possible. This part of the project took several days to complete.

The tire area required a combination of cleaning materials. The rubber parts were scrubbed with a small brush, simple green, and a cloth, the wooden spokes were dusted with rags and gentle brushes, and the connecting metal bits were scrubbed with simple green.

We saved the glass for last, which was quickly cleaned with ethanol and a cloth.

Lastly, as with all vehicles in this project, a newly sewn Tyvek cover was placed on top with a layer of plastic sheet over that to help protect the car.

Thank you to the Jane Learner Fund from Yellowstone Forever for making this project possible.

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“He didn’t just talk the talk, he took a deep dive into learning about conservation and then spread that knowledge in an effort to protect the wildlife he cherished.” — Kristen Larsen, daughter of James “Bud” Musgrove

In the summer of 1976, James “Bud” Musgrove found the love of his life at the iconic Fountain Paint Pots in Yellowstone National Park. While road tripping across the U.S., he met Francoise, a backpacker from France. What began as a carefree camping trip quickly bubbled up into love, and soon after, they eloped. They settled in Montana, where they raised two daughters, Kristen and Claudine. Their union marked the beginning of a family deeply intertwined with the wilderness of Yellowstone.

Bud’s commitment to wildlife, especially grizzly bears and bison, grew throughout his life. As his daughters went off to college, he became actively involved in bison and grizzly bear conservation, attending seminars, workshops, and collaborating with biologists. He became a leading voice for their protection, emerging as a strong advocate for these iconic creatures. His commitment was more than just a hobby—it was a lifelong mission. In the early ‘90s, James contributed to groundbreaking research on bear survival, solidifying his legacy as a tireless protector of Yellowstone’s wildlife.

Upon Bud’s passing in 2002, his loved ones worked with Yellowstone Forever to set a fitting tribute, honoring his lifetime of work protecting and preserving these remarkable animals. A bear-proof food storage box was installed at Mammoth Campground in his name where his family regularly visits, reflecting on his enduring influence.

Kristen, Claudine and Francoise continue Bud’s work, spreading his message of conservation and commitment to preserving Yellowstone’s wildlife. Today, they remain dedicated to ensuring that his advocacy for grizzly bears, wolves, and wilderness preservation endures for generations to come. His passion for protecting the earth and its creatures continues to inspire all who knew him.

By donating a bear box in Bud’s honor, the Musgrove’s are helping to ensure the preservation of Yellowstone’s ecosystem for future generations. Together, we can safeguard these incredible creatures—and the memories that make this place unforgettable.

Images from top to bottom:

1. James Musgrove
2. Grandchildren of James and Francoise at campsite in Mammoth Hot Springs campground with James’s bear box
3. All bear boxes come with an engraved plaque with text provided by sponsors

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​​​​​​Yellowstone Under the Big Sky
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: One&Only Moonlight Basin, The Landing at Sky Lodge
Registration: Register Here
RSVP by: June 1, 2025

Event Highlights:

• Handcrafted hor’dourves & signature cocktails
• Exclusive live & silent auctions
• Live music by renowned country artist Stephanie Quayle

All proceeds will directly support Yellowstone National Park, ensuring its protection and preservation for generations to come.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Moonlight Basin, this exclusive gathering will bring together like-minded community leaders and Yellowstone enthusiasts for a night of shared commitment to protecting and preserving the park’s extraordinary landscapes and wildlife for generations to come.

We look forward to celebrating Yellowstone with you!

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We are excited to present you with the winning images of the Yellowstone Forever 2026 Calendar Contest! We had an incredible response this year from photographers from across the country. With so many excellent images received, it is an understatement to say that the judging process was a challenging one.

A very big thank you to all who participated. There were so many top-notch images submitted that were deserving in their own right. We wish we were able to include more!

Purchase today here or by clicking the calendar cover image.

COVER | Richard Calkins

MARCH | Laura Dowd

JUNE | Larry Taylor

SEPTEMBER | Zack Clothier

DECEMBER | Steve Santel

JANUARY | J. Michael Darter

APRIL | Evan Watts

JULY | Julia Cook

OCTOBER | Lisa Culpepper

INSIDE BACK COVER | Mason Messner

FEBRUARY | David Kingham

MAY | Rob Pajewski

AUGUST | David McGinnis

NOVEMBER | Benjamin Bluhm

JANUARY | Jenny Golding

MAY | Scott Brovsky

SEPTEMBER | Rick Kramer

FEBRUARY | Trent Sizemore

JUNE | Wayne Wolfersberger

OCTOBER | Janet Jones

MARCH | Diana Pajewski

JULY | Dean Sauskojus

NOVEMBER | Stacy Gessler

APRIL | Rich Kirchner

AUGUST | Julie Barrick

DECEMBER | Devon Pradhuman

Jennifer Warner

Brian Barton

Ann Skelton

Lauren Bunker

Jeff Brennemen

Rob Harwood

Scott Thompson

Carol Polich

Patrick Vallely

Kathy Lichtendahl

Jim Futterer

Victor Rangel

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KIRBY, Wyo. (Sept. 9, 2024) –– Wyoming’s first legal distillery, Wyoming Whiskey, is proud to announce the launch of National Parks No.4 and Old Faithful Straight Bourbon Whiskies.

The Wyoming Whiskey National Parks No.4 Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park bottle is the fourth collectible limited-edition release in the brand’s annual National Park Series. A blend of over 70 carefully chosen barrels pulled from various areas of the Wyoming Whiskey warehouse, the whiskey is aged for a minimum of five years and showcases flavors of vanilla, candied ginger, crème caramel and a honeysuckle finish. The straight bourbon whiskey celebrates Yellowstone National Park, a place of natural wonder boasting half of the world’s known hydrothermal features, including Mammoth Hot Springs. This ever-changing system of travertine terraces has been formed over thousands of years, and Wyoming Whiskey’s National Parks No.4 release is a tribute to the park’s unique and evolving landscape.

Old Faithful is a limited-edition whiskey that honors Yellowstone National Park, the iconic Old Faithful geyser, and the legendary F. Jay Haynes with the latest installment in Wyoming Whiskey’s wide open spaces series. The whiskey is a blend of three specifically selected standout barrels, and has been thoughtfully aged for 10 years, resulting in a depth of flavor showcasing notes of baking spices, orange peel, toffee and black forest cake with crushed almonds. As one of the most unique natural environments on earth known for its extraordinary geothermal features, Yellowstone is home to the world’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful. Honoring the incredible natural wonder, the limited-edition Old Faithful bourbon features a label showcasing an image by F. Jay Haynes, who spent his life capturing the awe-inspiring sights of Yellowstone to share with the world.

Wyoming Whiskey is proud to support Yellowstone Forever, the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park. In conjunction with the release of National Parks No.4 and Old Faithful, Wyoming Whiskey has donated $150,000 to Yellowstone Forever in support of the nonprofit’s efforts to protect, preserve and enhance the world’s first national park.

Wyoming Whiskey co-founder David DeFazio shares, “National Parks No.4 has been crafted from barrels specifically selected to continue the distinctive flavor profile of our National Parks Series, celebrating the adventurous spirit of these treasured, wide-open spaces. Old Faithful is a truly special whiskey, made from a select few of our 10-year-old wheated bourbon barrels, making it the oldest wheated bourbon from our warehouses. I’m excited to share these new releases with our loyal Wyoming Whiskey fans and supporters of Yellowstone National Park.”

National Parks No.4 Straight Bourbon Whiskey tasting notes:

Color: Rich Copper
Nose: Créme Brule with cherry compote, toasted coconut, and confectioners sugar
Palate: Créme Caramel with Mexican vanilla and candied ginger
Finish: Honeysuckle with lingering notes of dark chocolate and espresso

Old Faithful Straight Bourbon Whiskey tasting notes:

Color: Mahogany
Nose: Deep red fruits and dark chocolate
Palate: Baking spices, orange peel, toffee, and black forest cake with crushed almonds
Finish: Cacao powder and vanilla bean with toasted spice and dried sultana

National Parks No.4 is available in 27 states nationwide. It has an ABV of 49% and is 98 proof. SRP $79.99. Old Faithful is available in Wyoming, California and Colorado. There will be roughly 500 bottles of Old Faithful available for purchase. It has an ABV of 54% and is 108 proof. SRP $499.99.

About Wyoming Whiskey
Based in Kirby, Wyoming, Wyoming Whiskey has had a simple goal: to create America’s next great bourbon. That goal has evolved to include all whiskies. The company and its products are a collaboration between its partners and 97,818 square miles of Wyoming. The Mead family first came to Wyoming as ranchers in 1890, and the state defines them and their whiskey. They use the finest corn, winter wheat, winter rye, barley and water from the Bighorn Basin and promote Wyoming’s natural and human resources. Every drop of this bourbon is truly made of Wyoming. To learn more, visit wyomingwhiskey.com.

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ALL MEDIA INQUIRIES AND REQUESTS
Justina Rapala Nielsen | FORTE MARE
justina@fmare.com
+1.310.845.6892

The post Press Release: Wyoming Whiskey Introduces National Parks No. 4 and Old Faithful appeared first on Yellowstone Forever.

COVER | Zack Clothier

MARCH | Erik Petersen

June | Lisa Culpepper

SEPTEMBER | Ben Pierce

DECEMBER | Chris Daniel

JANUARY | Jenny Golding

APRIL | Jennifer Renwick

JULY | Ann Skelton

OCTOBER | Heidi Pinkerton

INSIDE BACK COVER | Bing Fountain

FEBRUARY | Jim Chagares

MAY | Nina Hayes

AUGUST | Craig Duff

NOVEMBER | Dave Acheson

JANUARY | Andy Coleman

MAY | Doug Dance

SEPTEMBER | Dave Tong

FEBRUARY | Jack Glichrist

JUNE | Rob Harwood

OCTOBER | Corey Pettis

MARCH | Donna Lawson

JULY | Julia Cook

NOVEMBER | Brooke Kapalka

APRIL | Rich Kirchner

AUGUST | Tom Kirkendall

DECEMBER | Clate Harden

Dean Sauskojus

Marc Howard

Rob Palmer

Jim Futterer

Annette Siegel

Cris Rosch

Trent Sizemore

Wayne Wolfersberger

Robert Pajewski

Evan Watts

Adam Jewell

Mason Messner

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