To The Eagle:

Are you looking for a special venue for hosting a large family gathering or holiday party, a wedding and/or reception, public meeting or reunions? I was looking for a special indoor place this year, to celebrate my husband's retirement from the Town of Cathlamet Public Works, plus his 75th birthday party. Some persons might advise others to look in Cowlitz County. I believe in shopping locally when possible, so I chose the grand and historic Norse Hall on Puget Island.

This local landmark is located at 444 SR 409, Puget Island, Cathlamet, WA 98612. The building has been well maintained and comes stocked with an event planner's needs in mind.

The second floor, my favorite, has a beautiful wood floor and wooden wainscoting with built-in wooden benches, which anchor the soaring ceiling. On the far end from the entrance is an elevated stage, where Terry's work supervisor was asked to recount the many contributions of Terry's wisdom and humor. This facility met our needs and desire for a special memory making setting, which allowed Terry to be surrounded by his friends, family and coworkers. He felt blessed!

The Puget Island Norse Hall was built (very solidly) in 1937. According to the Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce website: "Norwegians were the first Puget Island settlers. They soon formed the Sons of Norway Helgeland Lodge, to create a place to meet and dance! Traditional Scandinavian events are still enjoyed here. The structure is 40 X 85 feet and two stories. It features a dining area, kitchen, stage and dance floor."

I do wish the walls and floor could talk!

The Norse Hall members have been making improvements and have more ambitious projects planned. Let's support this "local" landmark and venue, by utilizing the Puget Island Norse Hall, so there can be continued preservation and improvements made on

this building, which has hosted the special events of our ancestors in the area and still offers to make the events of current residents and our future generations extra special.

The Norse Hall rental coordinator is Cheryl Nelson. She was thorough, accommodating and gracious. Her phone number is 360-431-7120. My thanks to her and all the members of the Norse Hall for preserving and improving a piece of our local history, a unique gem in our own backyard!

Kay Vik

Puget Island