Preserving Faulkton’s Historic Legion Hall

“One of the really important things about preservation is it connects people to history in a very tangible way.” ~Myrick Howard

As this apt quote by Howard suggests, by preserving historic structures, we provide a window into the past. The American Legion Hall in Faulkton is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, our nation’s list of more than 90,000 properties deemed worthy of preservation.  

The Legion Hall has played an important role in the area’s history. Under the leadership of First Commander Max Moore, a local dentist, the Foncannon Post constructed the Legion Hall building in 1922.

The Foncannon Post 102 of the American Legion bears the name of Ernest Foncannon, the first man from Faulkton killed in World War I. The names of local fallen veterans were carved into its cornerstone.

Since then, the hall has also served as a hub of community activity. “It’s a really neat, old building with great acoustics and history,” says Jody Moritz, president of the Faulk County Historical Society. “For older generations, it has a lot of sentimental value.”

In the early years, the Legion Hall served as a gymnasium before the school had one. It hosted high school graduations in the 1930s–40s. In later years, it has been rented out for any number of events, such as weddings, dances, arts council theatrical events and the fireman’s ball.

The American Legion still operates out of the building. Members host a program at the hall with a potluck for Memorial Day that’s open to the community.

The City of Faulkton and private citizens have long recognized the value of the property. Following the Great Depression, the city took ownership of the building when the Legion’s membership was dwindling and upkeep became a burden.

In 1947, the Legion bought the building back and renovated it. The contributions and help of local volunteers helped make upgrades and keep the space running.

The hall is a gem in the community that continues to be well used today. The theatre provides a wonderful venue for arts programming and plays. The basement’s bowling alley still operates regularly, with men’s and women’s leagues.

As with any historic building, maintenance is key. There are many expenses associated with keeping it up. The local arts council recently bought a new curtain for the theatre, which will replace a curtain that dates back to 1947.

Plans are in the works to insulate the back walls of the theatre stage and its ceiling. There’s also painting to be done as well as windows and doors that need replacing.

The Legion Auxiliary is accepting donations for upcoming maintenance expenses. Moritz also notes that being listed on the historic registry allows them to apply for grants to help with such costs.

Volunteers and donations are welcome. Donations can be sent to the treasurer of the Legion’s Auxiliary.