RICHARDSVILLE - Sitting on the "corner" of what is now known as the Richardsville and Moore Bridge Roads, a sturdy, square, building holds the memories of residents past, the interest of those present, and the hope of those in the future.
The structure is the third of the known school building at the site. Classes opened 85 years ago in the Fall of 1923 for students in the West Warsaw Township School District.
Although the blackboards are still on the walls, the last students attended classes there in 1957. To preserve the facility, on Sept. 5, 1959, 29 citizens signed the Articles of Incorporation for the "Richardsville Social Center".
Rules adopted at the time allowed for "no less than 24, nor more than 30" members of the Board of Directors and "at least 12 married couples" had to be included in that group.
On the incorporation papers, the stated purpose was to "establish and maintain a social or civic center for the use and benefit of the inhabitants of said Village of Richardsville, and all persons residing in the vicinity thereof, in the Township of Warsaw."
The invitation for the building's use is extended to "all such persons as may desire to enjoy the facilities thereof in order to cultivate and promote friendship, sociability and culture among its members."
In conclusion, the statement mandates: "and to do all such other things as will foster an interest in civic and social affairs and better the welfare of the community served by it."
Among the first challenges faced by the organization was making payments on the $1,200.00 "bank note" for purchase of the structure. Minutes of the Jan., 1962 meeting record that Paul Rhines loaned the group the $1,000 then owed on the note.
Each of the then-board members promised to contribute $3.60 each, per month, to pay back Rhines. The pledges were fulfilled by Jan., 1963.
Honoring its mission to be used by the community, the facility has housed countless meetings of organizations like the Kiwanis, American Legion, Cub Scouts, Women's Christian Temperance Union, United Farmers Association and others.
Untold numbers of gatherings for area churches, festivals, reunions, dances, receptions, dinners and other events have been held in its familiar confines. Musicians regularly play there for square dances.
Looking toward Sept., 2009, and the 50th anniversary of its use as a social center, the present board is saving the money needed to install a new roof on the structure.
To that end, there will be musical entertainment, a "carry-in" dinner and Chinese auction held on Monday, Oct. 6. Capping
off the evening will be the drawing for the 1998 Subaru Legacy donated by former Richardsville area residents Dan Long and Shelly Skalicky.
Only 500 tickets are available for the car. Further information is available by calling (814) 328-9989 or 5255 or by visiting www.richardsvilleroad.com and clicking on the "Raffle" link on the left hand side of the home page.
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