Historic Stanley Church
Takes on New Life
As Life Enrichment Center
After sitting idle for a few years, the Tudor-style First Presbyterian Church in Stanley is starting a new life as a regional cultural center.
Built in 1928, the church is unique to the area of the state. According to Preservation North Dakota, the church is an "architectural gem," a one-of-a-kind attraction for the community. Dale Bentley, director of PND, said that "there are cities across the state that would jump at the chance to welcome an opportunity like this, to grow the community, promote an appreciation for arts and culture, and preserve the city's irreplaceable heritage."
Under a local non-profit corporation, restoration is underway and plans are in place for using the structure as a 'life enrichment' center to serve the people northwestern North Dakota.
Stan Wright, who helped lead the effort to preserve the building, said that one of the first steps was to give a distinguishing name to the project. "It will be known as the 'Sibyl Center for Life Enrichment' to honor the memory of Sibyl MacDonald," he said. For over 40 years Sibyl taught piano to hundreds of young people in the community and was a major benefactor to the church.
Wright said that projects like replacing the roof, installing a new heating system, and adding restrooms are moving forward. "It's a beautiful building and structurally in good shape," he said. "We don't want to change its appearance, but it does need upgrading and general repair. And it needs furnishings—it's empty now."
"From the start there's been the issue of raising money to make it a reality," Wright noted. He said that a fundraising letter sent to Stanley school alumni and friends in December brought total donations to nearly $38,000 with most coming from outside Stanley. "The response was overwhelming, showing us that people really care about preserving their sense of place and community."
Wright said that although money donations are always welcome, the organization is also looking for furnishings, office materials, and kitchen equipment. "In time we'll also be asking for community volunteers to help with a variety of tasks from painting to grass-cutting," he said.
The Sibyl Center for Life Enrichment will be dedicated during Stanley's Fourth of July celebrations. A multi-day Music and Arts Festival is also being planned as part of the grand opening.
The Stanley City Council transferred the church property to the non-profit Center last October.
More information, including photos of the building, is available on the Sibyl Center website at < http://www.sibylcenter.org/ >.
