In 1910, a meeting approved the construction of a Public Hall. Originally intended to be called the School of Arts, the name was changed to the Literary Institute to qualify for a government subsidy. Land was purchased from Mr. E. G. Wenke for £40, and he became one of the first trustees. After nearly two years of fundraising, tenders were invited, and Mr. R. D. Thompson, an architect from Albury, was hired to design a brick building measuring 56 x 30′ with a stage. On December 14, 1912, the tender submitted by Messrs. Gamble Bros., builders from Culcairn, was accepted.
The foundation stone was laid on Wednesday 5th March 1913 by R. T. Bull Esq M.L.A. The building was opened on the 23rd of June 1913 by R. Paton, MP for Hume and the cost was £1,065. Initially used as a library, it has also hosted many community events over the years. The first concert was held in 1913 and at one time boxing matches and flower shows were also held. The building was also used for dances, community functions, town concerts and school presentation nights. The building was also utilised as a picture theatre. The projection room is still in evidence. A fire gutted the main Hall during the screening of “The sheik” in January 1923. The hall was rebuilt with another 14 Ft added to its length. Since the insurance only covered half of the rebuilding costs, the community came together and raised the remaining amount.
It’s great to see the long-awaited repairs finally underway, with the mould-damaged ceiling removed, a new roof in place, and the brickwork repointed. The new floorboards will be installed once they’ve properly cured. The Walla Community is still waiting for all the repairs to be finished so the building can reopen and once again host community functions.