After almost five years, the Wheatley Legion will once again be able to host their own functions inside their brand new building.
The August 26, 2021 explosion that rocked downtown Wheatley and took out much of the old Branch on Erie Street North now seems like a distant memory to most outside of the village. The new Legion building going up on Talbot Street West is a stark reminder of that fateful evening.
But hope springs eternal, as they say, and Branch 324 members are hoping to be in their new digs this spring.
Branch Vice President Tom Brown says they are awaiting some finishing touches and hopes that they’ll be open sometime in early May, but weather, permits and materials will play a role in any delays that may occur.
The 6,000 square foot one-storey building covers as much area as the old Branch building, but all on one floor, featuring a spacious foyer entrance with lounging area, a large lounge and bar area and a separate rental venue for small weddings and celebrations. The lounge and rental venue are connected, so with the opening of a couple of overhead doors, it becomes one room.
Branch 324 President Dick Whittle says a few overruns on cost have set the project back a bit, but he’s hoping current fundraising efforts will help put all of that behind them. “We’re hoping to open around the first week of May,” he said. “Looking forward to getting back to regular Branch business.”
Whittle says members are anxious to get rolling in their new location and the strength of the membership is what keeps the Branch strong. “We have a good group of people who have worked hard to make this happen,” he added.
Branch 324 has recently launched a GoFundMe page to help with raising money as they look forward to their opening. They are also accepting donations from community partners and individuals through regular channels. Donations can be sent by e-transfer to legion05324@outlook.com. Include “Donation for Branch 324 Building Fund” in the memo. Cheques can be sent to Royal Canadian Legion Br. 324, PO Box 729, Wheatley, ON, N0P 2P0. Please include Branch 324 Building Fund in the memo line. Check with a Legion executive member for more information.
