Eagle Bay Hall in the 60s and 70s: Transitioning from Tumultuous Times to New Growth
By Karen Loerke
Serving tea at the Valentine’s Day Tea at Eagle Bay Hall (photo contributed)
The previous edition of the Scoop featured Eagle Bay Hall in the 1950s. As the Hall’s 75th anniversary approaches in August, upcoming editions will continue to feature significant events from past decades.
Although Eagle Bay Hall was operational by the end of the 1950s, it lacked basic amenities such as heating, electricity, and indoor plumbing. Despite these shortcomings, the Hall successfully hosted various events, including the First Annual General Meeting (AGM) and summer social gatherings. Among the highlights were live bands and dances. Financial records from the 1960s indicated that cabarets were the most profitable events held at the Hall. The Enderby Swingsters, a well-known big band, performed at Eagle Bay Hall and throughout the Shuswap area from 1946 to 1985. Visitors came from all over the lake, and dances often lasted throughout the night, with guests from the North Shore returning home only in the morning when it was safe to travel.
The 1960s presented significant challenges for Eagle Bay Hall, including operating on a tight budget while attempting to host community events. Discussions about the Hall’s viability led to a vote on April 28, 1961, regarding its potential transfer to the Eagle Bay Farmer’s Institute. Ultimately, the motion was defeated as it did not achieve the required 66 percent majority, now in the Hall’s past!
During the 1970s, the Hall underwent a revitalization that marked a significant period of growth and progressive thinking, which continues to influence practices today. These included changes to the building through creative budgeting initiatives, offering a range of activities and improving communication efforts with local citizens—key aspects of creating a strong local community.
Crib Games at Eagle Bay Hall in the 70s and 80s (photo contributed)
Since inadequate heating limited the Hall’s use during winter, a second-hand oil furnace and tank were installed in 1973. Other renovations included the installation of electricity, the addition of a new outhouse, and the construction of a new porch. The hall floor and benches were refinished. Improbable in today’s context, but indoor plumbing was not yet put in place, as the Hall did not have access to a water supply.
Local citizens came together to support plans for a larger parking area and an addition to the Hall. They pledged their support, raised funds for materials, and volunteered their labour. By 1979, the old kitchen had been converted into a cloakroom, a new kitchen was built, and the eaves and roof were extended on both sides. Significant improvements were also made to the emergency exit and the parking area.
A plan was developed to create a newsletter to be mailed to all members, along with strategies to increase membership numbers. The concept of a Life Membership was proposed and adopted, recognizing individuals who contributed land, materials, and labour for the construction of the Hall.
There was a growing recognition of the need to engage youth, leading to discussions about how to initiate activities for children and teenagers in the community. In addition, local women expressed interest in using the Hall for craft days and fitness classes—activities that continue today at the Hall. Research was also initiated to secure a grant for a Senior Citizens Club, which became a significant fundraising effort for the Hall in the 1980s.
Senior Citizens’ Club (New Horizons) in Eagle Bay in the 70s and 80s (photo contributed)
There were ongoing discussions about fire safety concerns related to new provincial requirements. With new building codes in effect, the Hall considered using a pumper truck from Sorrento in case of a fire. A gap-step solution was implemented, involving the purchase of a water tank and garden hose, and a barrel of water was placed in the basement; however, the effectiveness of these temporary measures remains uncertain.
By the end of the 1970s, the Hall had become a bustling hub of activity, hosting bingos, whist games, dances, activities for children and teens (such as table tennis and volleyball), bake sales, crafting sessions, fitness activities, and potlucks. To meet the ongoing needs of the Eagle Bay community, efforts to secure grants for the construction of an extension to the Hall, along with furnishings and equipment for social events, continued into the next decade. For the citizens of Eagle Bay, offering wide-ranging community and recreational activities created a vibrant place for everyone.
