MISSOULA — In just a matter of days, the University of Montana’s Schreiber Gym will be transformed into a turn-of-the-century logging town, complete with a saloon, jail, chapel, barbershop, beer garden, and more.
An age old event, the Foresters’ Ball raises funds for student scholarships and promotes the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. This year the event celebrates its 103rd anniversary.
The elaborate logging town is built by students and forestry alumni in just five days, and torn down within 24 hours. Naturally, this year’s theme is “Sawin’ Logs and Workin’ Like Dogs,” an idea created by Chief Push Heather Robertson.
The local Missoula band 406 will provide live music for swing dancing. Folks can also have professional photos taken by Mike Williams Photography, and have their hair cut, courtesy of Master Barber of Missoula
Chief Push and senior forestry major Heather Robertson says you won’t find an event like this outside of Missoula.
“There’s nothing else like this in the country. I don’t know of any other school that builds a logging town inside a gym on their campus every year, and has been doing it for 103 years,” Robertson said, “It’s just a really cool opportunity. There’s live music, swing dancing, a beer garden. It’s just a really fun night.”
The Foresters’ Ball will run from 7 p.m. to midnight both Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online, or in person at the University Center.
