Preston B. Moss built this red sandstone 25-room mansion in 1902-1903, when it stood some distance from the growing city of Billings. The house was home to Mr. and Mrs. Moss, their six children, the grandparents, and a staff of three. Designed by New York architect R. J. Hardenburgh, whose works include the Waldorf Astoria and Plaza hotels, it was constructed by local firm E. H. Gagnon and decorated by W. P. Nelson of Chicago, who designed some lighting fixtures still in use. Mahogany and walnut woodwork, an onyx fireplace, rose silk and gold leaf wall coverings, and stained glass windows were among its luxurious finishing touches. Because the home did not change hands, it appears nearly the same outside and inside as it did upon completion. Preston Moss had arrived in Billings in 1892, en route to Butte from Missouri, but stayed after being impressed by the town’s bustling activity. He soon took control of the First National Bank of Billings and, during the Silver Panic of 1893, benefited from having the bank invested primarily in sheep as silver prices fell by half. He became one of Montana’s largest and most diversified investors, owned the Billings Gazette from 1908 to 1914, was instrumental in creation of the Huntley Irrigation Project, and built the original Northern Hotel here before rebuilding it after the 1940 fire.