Description
This particular 1937 White Yellowstone Tour Bus has a wonderful and well-known past, having spent much of its life serving the Diamond J Ranch, a historic guest ranch located near Yellowstone National Park. Used to ferry ranch guests to the park and other scenic attractions, this bus not only transported visitors, but also carried with it the legacy of Western hospitality and adventure. The Diamond J Ranch was known for offering tourists an authentic Montana experience, and this bus played a key role in enhancing that experience by providing comfortable, open-air transport with sights and sounds of the wild at every turn.
Developed by renowned designer Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, whose work can be seen in various categories of automobiles, a total of just 98 tour buses would be ordered by the Yellowstone National Park from 1936 through 1938, serving as the main form of transportation for eager guests. According to the Yellowstone National Park Service, the 1930s White Tour Buses were gradually retired until the early 1970s when they were all eventually phased out and stored away from service. Following its service to the National Park, this example was acquired by the Diamond J Ranch and immediately put into operation. Sporting its 1973 Montana license plate, it was used consistently through 2019 where it would once again appear in the annual local parade. A photo of the parade accompanies the file and as expected highlights many smiling faces having a blast. Its continual use and careful professional maintenance are what has allowed this example to be the most significant preservation-kept example extant. It proudly displays the iconic Diamond J Ranch logo and words, “Guest Ranch Ennis, MT.” Dressed in its original yellow and black livery with charming, storied touches of mellowing and patina throughout, this Yellowstone bus has an iconic stance that few vehicles can claim. A symbol of adventure and thrills to come, this tour bus features a leatherette bench seating that accommodates 14 (or more!) lucky guests or friends. One of the highlight features is the roll-back tan canvas top, uncovering its grab bars that allow excited guests to stand, enjoy, and be able to take in all that Big Sky Country has to offer. The top is a Montana Canvas Company top which the Ranch installed after its acquisition and is now part of its patina and history. Amazingly, careful inspection indicates that virtually every major component appears to be original throughout; a true testament to the climate and proper storage away from the elements between uses all of its life.
Most recently, in the fall of 2024, the original 318-cubic-inch flathead six-cylinder engine and four-speed manual transmission were attended to. Virtually all of these buses have been modified with later engines making this one of a scarce few to retain its original drivetrain, a significant positive impact on its value. Following its recent service, this example has been properly exercised on the road including transporting the staff of Worldwide Auctioneers, with our General Manager, Brian Souers, manning the wheel. A video of this bus in action can be found on our website and YouTube channel. Accompanying the sale of this historic Yellowstone Bus, are period registrations from the 1970s in the name of the Diamond J Ranch, as well as one from the 2020s, and photos of it in the 2019 parade.
A fascinating example of American and automotive history for one of America’s most important parks, 1930s White Yellowstone National Park Tour Buses have become highly sought after in recent years. What makes this specific bus special, in an already limited class, is its authentic originality and known history and care. Certainly, a candidate for one’s collection or museum also stands ready to provide many more unforgettable experiences serving you, your friends, and guests on the road, and at car shows and tours, long into the future.
