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MANDAN, N.D. (AP) — A local Marine Corps League group is revamping a 97-year-old former schoolhouse near Mandan to serve as its new clubhouse.
The old Price Consolidated School building was built in 1918 and moved to its current location on the north side of Highway 10 in 1959. Over the years, the red building has undergone several reincarnations, serving as the Mandan VFW for more than two decades and then eventually falling into disrepair.
The Dakota Leathernecks plan to restore the building's original features that were altered in the 1980s during its time as a VFW hall, the Bismarck Tribune (http://bit.ly/1RY501K ) reported.
"A lot of damage is just cosmetic," said Ray Morrell, commandant of the Leathernecks, adding that the building's frame is solid. "We're going to keep the bones."
The group plans to install plumbing, electric heating and air conditioning, replace windows and knock down low ceilings so light once again can shine through the windows and into the building's large hall. Doors bearing the VFW emblem will be saved for reuse, the building will be repainted but will remain red and the charm of the wood corbels on the building's exterior will be maintained, Morrell said.
Owner Fred Berger donated the use of the building to the Leathernecks and told the group to make it "come alive."
"I'm proud of them for stepping up and serving their country," Berger said of his reason for the donation. "I just think you can't do enough for them. They laid their lives on the line. ... I think it's great I can help."
Berger is footing the bill for a new steel roof and the group hopes local businesses will donate the materials needed for an estimated $40,000 in repairs.
The Leathernecks plan to provide the labor, staying true to the notion that "Marines are resourceful," Morrell said.
Once the renovations are complete, the group plans to host meetings, recruiter events and other gatherings in the building. Members also want to host events for the community.
"It's camaraderie," Morrell said. "In the Marine Corps world, that's something you can't put a price on."
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Information from: Bismarck Tribune, http://www.bismarcktribune.com
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