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Vol. 37 | No. 12 December 5, 2024 1411 West Dakota Parkway Suite 2a | Williston, North Dakota 701-572-4851 | info@vocella.com
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Veterans and Friends of The Old Armory Kick Off Stair Renovation Fundraiser
J.C. LABAR JCLABAR@VOCELLA.COM
T
he Veterans and Friends of the Old Armory Board has launched a fundraising campaign to restore the west staircase of the historic Old Armory. This landmark has been a cornerstone for the Williston community for over a century. The Old Armory, a 109-year-old building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, needs significant renovations to its west stairs, which have deteriorated beyond repair. The proposed $350,000 project includes replacing the staircase with a design approved by the North Dakota Historical Society to preserve the building’s architectural integrity. “This building represents an unrivaled connection to Williston,” said Steve Slocum, a board member for the Veterans and Friends of the Old Armory. “It’s where Willis-
ABOVE: OLD ARMORY WEST STAIR RECONSTRUCTION. RIGHT: OLD ARMORY | PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY ALAN BILLEHUS ton sent its first young men to World War I, where many learned to dribble a basketball and where scores of theater youngsters earned the praise and applause of audiences.” The fundraiser officially began with a mixer at the Old Armory, where community members gathered to celebrate its history, envision its future and enjoy an exceptional performance by local singer Alina Aminova. The event un-
derscored the building’s importance hosting dances, basketball games, military drills and community gatherings for generations. In recent years, the Veterans and Friends Board has made notable upgrades to the building, including replacing the roof, installing new windows and doors and restoring the auditorium floor. These efforts, made possible through grants, donations and commu-
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nity support, have helped preserve the Old Armory’s functionality and historical value. However, the deteriorating west stairs remain a pressing concern, posing safety risks and limiting the building’s accessibility. “We’re asking the community for their support and, more importantly, to help us get the word out to the people of Williston about this critical initiative,” said Alan Billehus,
board president. The campaign has already received an EDC grant for $40,000 to fund the development of architectural plans for the staircase. Still, the community must raise the remaining funds through donations and sponsorships. “This project is about more than just a staircase—it’s about preserving the heart of our community and honoring the legacy of the Old Armory,” Billehus added. Community members are encouraged to contribute, with all donations going directly to the staircase replacement. For more information, contact Alan Billehus, Diane Hagen or B. Michael Quale at 701-5770278. Updates on the campaign’s progress will be featured in this publication and the monthly Williston Graphic. Keep an eye on the Old Armory’s profile on WillistonGraphic.com to learn more about how you can support this vital project.