Mark Prairie Schoolhouse Invites the Community to Get Involved and Welcomes New Site Manager

For immediate release:

Canby, Oregon — October 2025

The Mark Prairie Historical Society (MPHS) is proud to announce the hiring of Blaine Oswald as Site Manager for the historic Mark Prairie Schoolhouse. Alongside this appointment, MPHS is inviting community members, neighbors, and history enthusiasts to join as members, to volunteer, and to attend the October 18th Member, Guest & Neighbor Meeting and Potluck at the restored 1879 landmark.

Upcoming Event: Oct. 18 Member, Guest & Neighbor Meeting and Potluck

The community is invited to the Fall Member Meeting and Neighbor Potluck on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The event will take place at the Mark Prairie Schoolhouse (7528 S. Mark Rd, Canby) and via Zoom (link available by request at info@markprairiehistoricalsociety.org).

• 11:00 a.m. – Meeting, Board elections, and community updates

• 12:00 p.m. – Potluck luncheon (bring a dish to share; drinks and paperware provided)

• Yard & Board Games: corn hole, croquet, horseshoes, and more

Neighbors, members, and friends are encouraged to reconnect, meet new people, and experience the beautifully restored Schoolhouse firsthand.

An Invitation to Join and Volunteer

As Mark Prairie transitions from restoration to regular public use, MPHS is seeking new members and volunteers to help preserve the site and grow its role as a community hub.

Memberships include opportunities to help plan and participate in events, preservation, and historic education. Volunteer roles range from event coordination and site maintenance to archival work, marketing, grant writing, and serving on the Board.

“As Mark Prairie transitions from restoration of the storm-damaged Schoolhouse to welcoming the public back inside, we invite folks to get involved with the fun stuff! Let’s bring this place to life!”, said Peggy Sigler, MPHS Advisor.

Membership information and volunteer sign-up are available at markprairieschoolhouse.org.

New Leadership at the Schoolhouse

Following the successful restoration and reopening of the Mark Prairie Schoolhouse, MPHS has welcomed longtime Canby resident Blaine Oswald as Site Manager. Recently retired after a long management career with Do It Best Hardware, Oswald brings decades of leadership and deep community roots. He will oversee site rentals, manage maintenance, coordinate events, and support volunteers.

“We are delighted to have Blaine help this all-volunteer organization manage the site as a rental, sustaining the landmark into the future,” said Judi Aus, President Emeritus and Mark descendant.

“I’m eager to make a difference in the community by using my skill sets as a servant leader and operational excellence leader,” Oswald shared in his application.

Host Your Next Event at the Historic Schoolhouse

After a four-year restoration effort, the 1879 Mark Prairie Schoolhouse has reopened as one of Oregon’s most unique venues for weddings, reunions, meetings, and community celebrations.

Blending 19th-century character with modern amenities, the Schoolhouse offers flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, ADA accessibility, and a picturesque oak grove setting.

“This restoration was about more than saving a building,” said Peggy Sigler. “It was about giving the community a place to gather again—whether for a wedding in the oak grove, a business retreat surrounded by history, or a family celebration in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.”

To book tours or inquire about rentals, contact site@markprairiehistoricalsociety.org or visit markprairiehistoricalsociety.org/book-your-event.

About the Mark Prairie Schoolhouse

Built in 1879, the Mark Prairie Schoolhouse served generations of local children until 1946 and later hosted community programs, 4-H clubs, and social events. Following severe storm damage in 2021, MPHS led a four-year, million-dollar restoration effort supported by hundreds of donors, volunteers, and local partners. The restored Schoolhouse now serves as both a living museum and modern gathering place, ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.