Ever since the founding of Meeker, banks have been a vital part to the residence's lives. Through many businesses and name changes, this buildings has come to be one of the most historical ones in town. Below we will also be talking about the IOOF hall, and the history surrounding it, which now is home to the Mountain Valley Bank.
The Founding
Built in 1897, this structure was originally intended to hold Meeker's organization of the "Independent Order of Odd Fellows" or IOOF. This group of people were generally wealthy and wanted to help give back to people in need. The building served as this for nearly 100 years, having a business on the downstairs level of it, and IOOF meetings on the upper level. Being in IOOF meant members also got insurance and help if a tragic accident were to happen. It provided a social outlet for people in Meeker and people around the small town.
In order for the IOOF hall to be built, the old McHatton Adobe had to be torn down. People protested this as the Adobe was one of the old military barracks building. The small town hated seeing the landmarks go, but were excited to have this new hall.
In order for the IOOF hall to be built, the old McHatton Adobe had to be torn down. People protested this as the Adobe was one of the old military barracks building. The small town hated seeing the landmarks go, but were excited to have this new hall.
Above is the McHatton Adobe, the old military barracks, which was torn down in order to make the current IOOF Hall. Picture taken in 1885.
History
After this was used for the IOOF lodge, the space was used as a private residence. "Throughout its history, its been used by the community, not only by IOOF members but by other organizations, clubs, and even a classroom when the nearby schools could not be used. The local telephone company occupied it for a while as did the Rio Blanco offices... " -Rio Blanco Herald Times. The building has also been referred to as Ronny's Hall and Star Theater. The building housed many different community spaces including various amounts of stores. After a while, the Mountain Valley Bank purchased it in 2004.
Above are some members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the club this building was originally built for.
The IOOF lodge, (now Montain Valley Bank) as of 2019.
Today
Today, the IOOF hall houses the Mountain Valley Bank, and has since they bought it in 2004. This hall has many deep historic stories in it, and will continue to be a big part of Meeker's history. Take a tour inside the IOOF Hall/Mountain Valley Bank here or see what the building used to look like here!
