"Ladies and Gentlemen - Beside the bright waters of our

beautiful lake, illumined by the rich glow of a Western Florida sunset, we are assembled, representatives of every State in the Union, to lay the corner-stone of a Hall of Brotherhood, suggesting in architectural design the grace and beauty of our National Capitol, and affording a much needed shelter for schools in many branches of science and literature connected with our Chautauqua development."

Thus began the Honorable Wallace Bruce's speech at the groundbreaking ceremony of the original Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood. Mr. Bruce had a vision of an auditorium to be used in promoting the study of history, literature, music, art, and Bible study. Every beam, column, pillar of the building represented the

accomplishments of distinguished individuals. The dome was dedicated to the soldiers and sailors of the Republic. The columns on the first floor represented the lawmakers of the world. The columns of the second floor represented American statesmen, military heroes, and academic and religious leaders. The columns on the outside of the building were to represent the Presidents of the United States.

"Every beam and timber, each brick and stone that shall complete its structure, from this supporting corner-stone now laid to its finished turret, will speak to coming generations of sentiment which suggested it. American brotherhood, a reunited country, on which depends not only the life and perpetuity of the Republic, but the welfare of universal humanity, are the glorious realities which this Hall is to represent."

In 1909 Wallace Bruce's dream became a reality when the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood was completed. It was home of the Chautauqua Winter Assembly until 1929 and for many years was a thriving location of

educational and cultural pursuits. Thousands poured into the small town's auditorium to listen to learned speakers on a wide range of topics. Featured speakers included Noah Webster, William Jennings Bryant, and author Isabella Alden (Pansy). Traveling troupes entertained with musical productions and creative presentations.

The second era of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood emerged in the 1940's. The building was remodeled and re-utilized to become a city auditorium hosting USO dances, weekly square dances, the Grand Ol' Opry, regional band competitions, basketball games, and even wrestling matches.

One of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood's most treasured

uses was the annual West Florida Musical Festival held during in the 30's and 40's. Bands from all over the region would congregate in De Funiak Springs and compete for the coveted awards. At the time Walton High was recognized as the largest and best marching band in the Panhandle, under the direction of Captain Edwin Scherouse.

The popular "Birthday Club of the Air" was celebrated in

March of each year during the 50's. As many as 1,200 senior citizens enjoyed refreshments, entertainment, and prizes. The featured guest at the party was Uncle Bill Lundy, the oldest surviving member of the Civil War.

Walton High School made much use of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood, including a weekly square dance sponsored by the junior class. Pappy Neil McCormick and his band kept up the rousing music while couples of all ages promenaded in tune.

Through the years, the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood hosted a multitude of special events such as

Farmer's Day, U.S. Navy Band performance, Hazel Walker and her famous Arkansas Travelers, all night sings, and the Ford Farming Festival. Celebrity performers included Minnie Pearl and Grandpa Jones, Pee Wee King, W.D. Cooter Douglass, Mario Lanza, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

In the 1970's Hurricane Eloise swept across the Florida panhandle, leaving behind a trail of demolition. Her fury destroyed the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood auditorium. Only the front lobby section remained. The decision was made not to rebuild and the town of De Funiak Springs mourned the loss.