Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the hall?
Our official name is Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall. Our nickname is HERTH Hall. Originally we were known as the Elk Rapids Township Hall.
Where is the hall located?
At 401 River Street in downtown Elk Rapids, Michigan -- at the corner of River and Spruce, across the street from the tennis courts. Check out the map below.
Do you offer full bar service?
Yes indeed. We have a special relationship with Siren Hall Restaurant that provides a full beverage/bar service at major events at the town hall. You cannot bring your own alcohol into our hall.
What is up in the back balcony?
Because the balcony can no longer be public, the risers are gone and a flat floor is now in place. It is used for storage and also technical theater. You might notice spotlights up there.
What is the secret of the stage curtain?
The curtain on display now is a digital reproduction of the original screen, which is in storage. Britten Studios in Traverse City photographed the old curtain, digitized the photo and printed out a new canvas curtain, restoring all the original brilliant colors.
Was roller skating ever allowed?
Yes, in 1884. We have also hosted basketball games and bean bag wars. We no longer allow roller skating and basketball, but bean bag contests are still possible.
Are you on Facebook?
Indeed we are. Log on and search for Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall. We post breaking news on Facebook.
Did the Barrymores perform at HERTH Hall?
According to local historian Glenn Neumann, the answer is a very qualified YES. There is an old promotional advertisement touting the performance, but it turns out the event was a film, not live on stage.
Who were the three women who saved the historic hall from demolition in the 1950's?
Floy Bachi, Elsie Pfeiffer and Ruby Veliquette collected more than 600 signatures to effectively halt Town Hall demolition in the 50s.
Is HERTH Hall haunted?
Although there has been one fascinating story about a sighting at our hall, we guarantee that, for your next special event, you will not encounter any human spirits. But we can have beverage-oriented spirits available upon request.
Do you have any paid employees?
Yes, we have two:
- Sean Reisig is our Operations Manager.
- Carolyn Hoover is our Events Manager.
Yes, and there be monsters nearby.