I remember going to a lot of dances with my parents to the Renown Hall. When I was really young, we younger kids would fall to sleep on a pile of coats, while the adults would dance the night away. Any event worth celebrating, would be held at the Renown Hall. Bridal showers, my own included, some wedding receptions, my parents (Edie and Herb Reid's) 50 anniversary. I member the minister from the United Church in Watrous would do some church services in the hall. The school Christmas concerts and the Sunday School concerts were also held there. It was a special place, because we had a stage and at the end of each event, heavy, red drapes were drawn so the performers could scurry on to their next exciting skit or play.
One of the best things would be the fires in the stove in the winter. Someone would go early and start the fire, so it would be super cozy when people arrived for the dance. Ulmers, from out west, would often provide the live music and at about 11:00, coffee and cake would be served - yum.
I believe Renown was well known for the foul suppers - people would come from all the other communities to enjoy the delicious food prepared by all the hard-working Renown women from the "Ladies Club. Of course these suppers were held in the hall.
Maureen [ Reid ] Deacon
20-Oct-2008 16:16
This was the Community Hall. Many a social function was enjoyed in this building. My family's farewell to Renown was held there. It is sad to see the little town falling apart. I'm surprised the buildings haven't just been demolished for safety reasons. The house we lived in was deliberately set on fire for the Voluteer Fire Fighters to practice on. The last time I ventured inside it, it was super sad so I never went into it again. It was also unsafe to do so I thought.
