Who knew what hid behind the brick facade of the old Batcher Building? Well, I suppose many Staples natives and history buffs did, but I was not among this crowd.

If you have never been upstairs in the Batcher Building you are missing a beautifully restored opera house that mimics some of the gorgeous theatres in the Metro Area. Hundred year old balcony seating, fresco murals on the cathedral ceiling, restored hardwood floors, private turrets overlooking the stage. So rich in history that even I, someone not usually interested in history, was enamored with it’s depth and story.

The longer I live in Staples the more I am surprised and fascinated with the jewels that lie within it. I truly hope to see the day when this building is used for great things.

Alina Robinson Staples, Minn.