A Brief History of the Woodmen of the World Hall

The corner of 8th and Lincoln in Eugene has been a community gathering place for generations. Part of Eugene Skinner's addition to his original donation land claim, the first building erected at the site was a small church. That church was later moved, and in 1883 the First Presbyterian Church built what was considered one of Eugene's finest public structures. True to the neighborly ways of that era, other denominations and community groups were allowed use of the facility.

In 1890 the Woodmen of the World fraternal organization was formed in Omaha, Nebraska, and soon swept the western United States. A chapter formed in Eugene and provided health benefits, life insurance and burial costs while undertaking charitable and recreational activities for children and adults. Women participated through a sister organization, the Women of Woodcraft.

In 1906 the Woodmen bought the Presbyterian church and renamed it Woodmen of the World Hall. In 1932 the present building was constructed, an ambitious project during the Great Depression. According to the Eugene Morning Register, it was the most expensive building constructed that year at a value of $8000 and considered, "modern in every detail." The very best of craftsmanship and materials were used with much of the work provided by volunteers. Of particular note was the beautiful hardrock maple 'floating' dance floor designed especially for square and ballroom dancing. Dances were held every Saturday night.

A large array of concerts, classes, meetings and theatrical productions were staged at the W.O.W. Hall throughout the thirties and forties and, in the 1950's, some of Eugene's first rock and roll dances. As the Woodmen chapter became older and inactive, a number of promoters rented the Hall for various productions.