Sanders Gymnasium

In 1910, residents of the Sanders area joined together to build a clubhouse on this site, each donating $15 or its equivalent in labor, and the crudely assembled building served the community for nearly thirty years. By the late 1930s, it had fallen into disrepair, and the Sanders School District sought a replacement that could also serve as a gymnasium for neighboring Sanders Elementary School. After a bond election provided funding, the old building was removed, regional architect John G. Link prepared the plans, and Billings contractor Steve Mercer secured the $3,500 contract. The new hall and gymnasium paired a rustic exterior of rugged square-notched logs with an interior featuring a lofty arched fir ceiling, polished hardwood floor, basketball court, raised stage, built-in seating, and modern lighting despite lacking indoor plumbing. A community dance opened it on June 29, 1940. Although Sanders' population declined and the school closed in 1948 before being moved to Hysham, the hall remained a center for dances, reunions, receptions, school plays, and spirited games, while the front gate and two-hole privy remained on the historic landscape. Local residents, including descendants of area homesteaders, have carefully refurbished the building.

Montana · United States