Gray Memorial Hall
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When Gray was first settled the Barber and Billiards building allowed their upstairs level to serve as a community hall (1912-19). A trial was held there in 1917.
In 1919, when the Gray Grain Growers Association purchased the Rose building, the upper level was then designated as community hall until the building was condemned in 1938. Functions included concerts, dances, annual 'Oyster Suppers', card parties, wrestling bouts and even a small circus (one lady remembered watching a bear being taken up the stairs - there was an outside stairway on the north side of the building for event access). When it was necessary for this structure to be demolished, the Grain Growers donated the building (and lot) to the town. The Gray Memorial Hall was built adjacent to the old building in 1950 and named to commemorate those who had served in the World Wars. Volunteers re-used much of the material (lumber and hardwood floor) in the new structure. The plans were borrowed from the recently built Kronau Hall with several adaptations. Construction began in June. Following harvest (November 11) concrete was poured. Local groups fundraised and donated items to furnish the new facility - from dishes to tables and chairs. Etchwood was ordered for the walls. Completion and furnishing continued over the next few years. A projector was purchased in 1953 and movie nights began. Prior to running water, volunteers had to haul water in 5-gallon pails. Think of the volume required for dish-washing at Fowl Supper time! Renovations/upgrades over the years include; electricity (1954), stoves converted to gas (1964), running water (1976), new shingles and front step (1981), accessible ramp, bathrooms in the basement (1982), roof cladding, accessible bathroom on main floor (2013). Gray Memorial Hall is still a well-used facility and hosts several community and private events each year. |
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Memories of 'the build' |
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