Visiting for genealogy research (Billings, Great Falls: appointed, things to do, friendly)

[MuryB]

My cousin and I are coming out to Montana from Virginia for the first time in August. We plan to fly into Billings, drive to Lavina and on to Helena to research at the Historical Society. We are related directly to the wife of Daniel Webster Slayton (Lizzie). My mother was born in Lavina in 1910. My grandmother was from Fairfax, Virginia and was the daugher of a fairly well-to-do family. My grandfather was a farmhand working for her father. They fell in love. My great grandparents shipped Hattie off to Cousin Lizzie and Dan in Lavina to get her away from her love. Well, my resourceful Grammy worked and sent money back to her Tom and he came out and married her! I know this is a long post, but I am very excited about seeing where my mother was born and knowing more about my ancestors. Can someone tell me about some areas to visit in Golden Valley County and up around Helena?

[Nitenursee]

Your mom must have been born during the hay-days of Lavina. I hope you're not disapointed, there isn't much there any more, but the people are friendly and you may find some that knew your family. When in Helena see Last Chance Gulch, take the Gates of the Mountains boat ride, check out the old Govenors Mansion, maybe to to Great Falls and see the Charlie Russel Musem and the Lewis and Clark center. You should be able to find a lot of things to do. Enjoy your trip.

[MuryB]

I know there's not much left in Lavina. I won't be disappointed, though. Just seeing the history there is exciting to me.