P a g e 5 G h o s t T o w n s a n d H i s t o r y o f M o n t a n a N e w s l e t t e r Fraternity Hall is a picturesque two story building on main street., and at one time was the community's gathering place for certain social activities. It was built during the 1890's. Dances were held on the second floor, while people interested in eating could do so on the first floor. Certain fraternity groups or lodges like the Masons, Knights of Pythias, 1.0.0.F., and the I.O.G.I also held meetings on the second floor. Another activity that occurred in Fraternity Hall was prize fighting. Such professional boxers as Ike Hayes, Maurice Thompson, and Lloyd Locker were known to box in Fraternity Hall. Fraternity Hall also hosted public meetings, basket socials, concerts (held by the Cornish Glee Club singers), school programs, and vaudeville performances. Fraternity Hall was the site of an isolated shooting death in Elkhorn. Because of Fraternity Hall's high profile in many newspaper and magazine articles, its castellated cornice and suspended balcony has become a known symbol for the town of Elkhorn. Gillian Hall was acquired at the same time as Fraternity Hall by the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. It was built during the early boom years of Elkhorn. It stands next to the larger Fraternity Hall, but its structural uniqueness gives Gillian Hall its own personality. The hall is faced with large windows and the remains of an upstairs balcony. Unfortunately there is very little written down in the history books about Gillian Hall. It is thought that Gillian Hall served either as a store or saloon, and its purpose for the old residents of Elkhorn is left to the imagination. It is also possible to enter and enjoy the first floor of Gillian Hall. The hall does have a second floor, but the staircase that once led upstairs has submitted to the harsh elements of time and climate. Elkhorn Historic Mining Town is a truly unique place, and you are invited along with family and friend to come visit Elkhorn State Park. Remember to respect the buildings and private property. Please don't smoke in either of the old buildings as they are highly susceptible to fire. Primitive camping facilities are provided just outside of town by the U.S. Forest Service. Trails leading into the Elkhorn Mountains, on the Deer lodge National Forest, are nearby. Come visit and enjoy!! Location Elkhorn is found by following Interstate 15 to the Boulder exit. Travel seven miles south on Highway 69 towards Whitehall. Tum left at the Elkhorn sign, and travel eleven miles north on the gravel road to Elkhorn. -Courtesy of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
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