A COMMUNITY PLACE

Historical buildings are reminders of a community's beginning and cultural base. After 89 years, residents of Lonepine still utilize the Lonepine Community Hall for what it was constructed for.

"The Articles of Incorporation listed one of the purposes of the Lonepine Community Hall as a public gathering place for the community of Lonepine and the whole of Sanders County," commented club member Cynthia Benson.

The Hall continues to come alive with social entertainment in the form of dances, musical events, vaudevilles, moving and talking films, boys and girls club and youth group meetings, athletic events, weddings, funerals, family reunions, dinners and many other social gatherings.

"It is important that we keep the building maintained for the community use of it," Benson stated. With that thought in mind, Benson shared that the upkeep and maintenance costs associated with the hall are starting to concern club members.

As for now, Benson said costs associated with propane, electricity, insurance and other supplies continue to be paid for. But the time is coming when help from others is needed.

"Some of us are feeling our years creep up on us," she said. "We have not had fundraising efforts like we used to have." Board members are asking for help. Anyone interested in seeing the center continue to thrive are encouraged to attend meetings and become involved with maintenance, upkeep and fundraising.

According to Benson, Roy J. Bras, Ken Von Segan, RD McHenry, CP Howser and JC McCoy incorporated the Lonepine Community Club on May 20, 1930, when Freeman Halvorson notarized the documents. Finances were handled by RJ Taylor and Duncan Campbell, who recorded donations from $2 to $63. In the subscription list, it is noted that these donations were made in both cash and labor in the "public spirit of the community to build the hall."

Currently, the board is managing a fundraiser through the mail, as this is the most effective way for members. Donations may be mailed to: Lonepine Community Club, c/o Cindy Benson, 8 Lonepine Road, Lonepine, MT 59848 or to Lonepine Community Club, c/o Valley Bank, P.O. Box 2000, Hot Springs, MT 59845 (please specify donation is to go to Lonepine Community Club). Receipts will be sent for received donations.

The club sends gratitude for the community members who have already made donations. They ask that if anyone has any historical items, pictures or stories they would like to share to please be in touch with them.

The next public meeting is scheduled for Sunday, September 8, at 7 p.m. at the Hall. More information can be obtained by phoning Benson at (406) 741-3530 or (406) 270-3386.