More Than Just A Garage

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Sixty years ago it was a garage used for servicing vehicles in the Randolph area; today it's being renovated into a community centre. It's the old Neufeld Brothers Garage located off Highway 206.

The building was built by Ed and Henry Neufeld back in the late 1940's. Though it was a service station, the first event held in the garage was a wedding reception in 1948.

According to Victor Neufeld, son of Henry, Neufeld Brothers Garage was much more than a place to bring in the vehicle to have it serviced. Though it was also an Oliver equipment dealer, a North Star oil bulk fuel dealer and a Nash cars dealership, it was a community meeting place.

"People came here for a reason, to get things fixed but also to take in the atmosphere," explains Neufeld. He says in many ways the garage was the hub of the community. Friends and neighbours enjoyed meeting to hear the latest news, pick up their mail or enjoy a six ounce Coke.

In 2008, ten years after the death of their father, the family decided to auction off much of the old equipment and then rented out the space for a couple of years. But by 2011, the family took the building back and started to dream of what the next phase of its life could look like.

The decision was made for the garage to undergo a massive renovation with the attempt of restoring the building to its 1950's look. Neufeld says the original estimate was to spend $135,000. But, due to extra costs for heating systems and the extent of the required renovations, the projected budget is now $155,000. To date about $110,000 has been raised, including pledges.

Neufeld says when it's all said and done, the office space on the west side of the building will resemble the original office, where their longtime secretary worked for decades. You will see her chair and the table and equipment that she used. That area of the building will also have parts displays with original parts and shelving units. That front area will also include a kitchen which will serve as a place to warm up food for those renting the building.

Beyond the front area will be a diagnostic room and then in the back of the garage will be a large open space complete with a dance floor, movie theatre screen, floorhockey rink and games area. Because the building will be the future home of the Randolph Sports Club, the goal is also to hang jerseys on the wall and include pictures of Randolph's sports history.

Neufeld says what's been so special about this whole process has been reconnecting with old acquaintances. He's also enjoyed working with family, including third generation Neufelds. But he says it's been extremely special to see his mother's face light up every time she walks into the renovated garage.

"She's just so thrilled that there is still life in the building and that there will be new life," says Neufeld. "Dad's overlooking the whole project from up above and we're so glad that they're thrilled about what we as the children want to do with this building."

Neufeld says when the rink was torn down in 2008, Randolph lost its last community meeting place. But he hopes this garage will take on that role once again. He notes the goal is to have the building ready to go for a Christmas Market booked there November 8.

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**Submitted Photos