Rosie Getting More than a Little Love

Dawn, Cody, Toni and Fraser Mayor with gold chisels and sledge hammers.

Dawn, Cody, Toni and Fraser Mayor with gold chisels and sledge hammers.

Crooked Creek Saloon is getting a facelift and much more.  The renovation project, part of the Fraser Enhancement Grant Program, will update the curb appeal and entrances to the Eatery and Saloon.  Toni Hallgren, owner of the colorful saloon and Eatery for nine years, said, “it is time” and, she is excited to do some work on the outside of the building. The new look will encompass a makeover for Rosie as well, the saloon gal that has been the icon for the establishment for over 40 years. The history of Rosie is unclear according to Hallgren, but, one thing is for sure, Rosie and Mary Jane are at odds in the underworld.  It could be a ghostly rivalry from a bygone era.

The renovation has a total estimated price tag around $180,000 with the Town of Fraser Crooked Creek Saloon Sign.matching $45,000 through its grant program.  Hallgren said, it will take us “at least til next spring to finish”, but, they plan on staying open during the construction.  Plans include a new boiler and some heated walkways, a new entrance to the Eatery and some Funky Fraser Artistry painted on the new brick facade.  Rosie is also getting a new look thanks to Dawn Murphy, local artist and designer.

I asked Toni “What about Old Rosie on the building?” and, she said that she plans to use them as art in the garden and other areas yet to be determined.  “And, NO, you can’t have one” Toni said jokingly.  “We have a spooky little restaurant with a storied past adding to Funky Fraser’s Old Town District.”