Why Bozeman’s Historic Homes Matter
Bozeman’s residential streets read like a timeline—Victorian grandeur giving way to early-20th-century revivals & tidy bungalows. Several neighborhoods are recognized as National Register historic districts, including the Bon Ton & South Tracy–South Black areas, each with their own character, scale & period details.
The Bon Ton District: Grande Dames & Garden Blocks
Stretching along South Willson, South Grand, South Third & West Cleveland, the Bon Ton Historic District showcases Bozeman’s finest historic residential architecture—from Queen Anne & Colonial Revival to Bungalow/Craftsman—larger homes on larger lots with elegant streetscapes. It’s also where you’ll find one of Montana’s most celebrated residences, the Story Mansion.
911 S Willson Avenue — The Scherer House
Originally designed by noted Bozeman architect Fred F. Willson, the Scherer House pairs architectural pedigree with thoughtful, modern updates. Set on one of Bozeman’s most iconic, tree-lined avenues, this 4-bed, 3.5-bath home embodies early-20th-century craftsmanship brought forward for contemporary living—art lighting, refined millwork & a timeless exterior presence.
Why it resonates
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Architectural lineage: A Willson-designed residence in the city he helped shape.
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Setting: Deep within the Bon Ton fabric, surrounded by similarly significant homes.
Offered at $2,700,000. Visit the listing here.
319 S Third Avenue — Free Classic Queen Anne Elegance
Built in 1899, this stately home reflects Bozeman’s transition from frontier outpost to established town. Often described as Free Classic Queen Anne, it blends symmetrical cues (columns, balanced massing) with era-appropriate ornamentation across four levels & multiple city lots—historic charm aligned with upgraded systems & livability.
Why it resonates
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Era-defining style: A textbook late-19th-century residence adapted for today.
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Historic-district address: Steps to Bozeman’s most architecturally cohesive streets.
Offered at $3,250,000. Visit the listing here.
Other Icons to Know (and Visit)
Story Mansion — 811 S Willson
Designed by C.S. Haire & completed in 1910, the T. Byron Story Mansion ranks among the most elaborate historic houses in Montana. Today it serves the community as an event & gathering space—an enduring link between pioneer families & present-day Bozeman.
Lehrkind Mansions — North Wallace Avenue
North of Main, the former brewery district includes residences tied to the Lehrkind family—handsome, period homes connected to Bozeman’s brewing heritage. The best-known example is the Lehrkind Mansion at 719 N Wallace Ave, long operated as a B&B.
How to Explore
Start on South Willson & loop through South Third, South Grand & West Cleveland to appreciate the Bon Ton’s variety. Then swing to North Wallace for the Lehrkind legacy, and finish along South Tracy–South Black for bungalow charm. The City of Bozeman’s online resources & district nominations are excellent primers before you go.
