Camp Sherman hall makes historical registry

Sandra Chalk admires the plaque listing Camp Sherman Community Hall on National Historic Register. photo by Conrad Weiler

Camp Sherman's Community Hall has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the Interior Department of the United States.

Lorie Hancock and Tonye Philips, members of the Camp Sherman Community Association (CSCA), spearheaded the drive over the last year to bring about this national acknowledgment and listing of the venerable building, completed in 1949.

Work started in the late 1940s to build the Hall on land donated by Hays and Roblay McMullin. Local residents donated time, money and work in creating a local meeting hall. Since that time the building has seen many community uses including dances, bingo nights, wedding receptions and family reunions.

National holiday pancake breakfasts are celebrated on Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends and attract large turnouts.

Currently, three "cabin-fever" potlucks are held at the Hall over the winter months and provide good food, people talk and a guest speaker at each gathering.

The Hall has also hosted political candidate events, town hall meetings to discuss local issues and other special events.

For the last six years, Camp Sherman's Pine Needlers have held their winter and summer quilt shows at the Hall with large turnouts.

Located on Road 1419 (Camp Sherman Road), the Hall has a large meeting area downstairs with kitchen and bathroom facilities. There is a small attic upstairs.

Listing on the National Register offers opportunities for federal tax credit, matching fund grants and special assessment under Oregon state law. Other requirements include opening the building for public viewing once each year.