Barre's Old Labor Hall

Flood Appeal

June 30, 2011

Dear Friend of the Old Labor Hall,

The Old Labor Hall was inundated during the late May rainstorm that struck Barre and the surrounding area. Over six feet of water poured into the basement, destroying the elevator and the interior walls, a loss estimated at more than $100,000. Because of prior floods, the Labor Hall has flood insurance, but this insurance only covers 40% of the loss. In addition to the physical damage, the Hall has had to cancel upcoming bookings due to the loss of handicap access and bathrooms. This is costing us the income on which we rely to cover our expenses. What can be done? One answer is to close off the entrances to the basement through which the water flows. There is some indication that historic preservation officials will permit this to be done, at least on a temporary basis. In addition, we are urging the City of Barre to improve the drainage on Granite Street to alleviate flooding. But we also need to get the Hall up and running again, for the meetings, shows, weddings, and other events for which the Hall is the perfect venue - historic, beautiful, and affordable for a broad section of the community. Please help get the Old Labor Hall back on its feet! We need to raise at least $40,000 as fast as possible to reopen the hall. We are determined to overcome this latest challenge, but we need everyone who cares about the Hall to pitch in and help make it happen. Together we can make the Hall even better than ever. Please be as generous as you can. Many thanks. Sincerely,

Chet Briggs, President Karen Lane, Treasurer

.Primo Maggio at the Old Labor Hall

The first Primo Maggio observance at the Old Labor Hall occurred on May 1, 1901.  A notice in the Barre Evening Telegram read, "The members of the Italian Colony are observing today, May 1st as Labor Day...At 10:00 this forenoon, a well attended mass meeting at Socialists Hall was addressed by G. Miani, Messrs. Cassi, Calgani, Estev.  Philp Halvosa was the last speaker and delivered an interesting address...This evening the celebration will be continued with dancing and a dramatic presentation at Socialists Hall."