January 2010 Program
THE TRETHEWAY PAVILION

A gathering place for the better share of 90 years, the Tretheway Pavilion was known in the early years simply as the "Park Pavilion."
It continues to be a popular venue for everything from community luncheons and business gatherings to wedding receptions and dances.

Presenter Paul Higbee.

Chatting here with Darlene Matthesen, writer Paul Higbee has authored several books about the Black Hills area. His latest is Bear Butte: Sentinel of the Plains with photographer Les Voorhis. Higbee was been a regular contributor to South Dakota Magazine for many years.

Laurie Williams-Hayes, the lady on the left, is program chair for the society and has done a stellar job of lining up a full year of outstanding program. President Rand Williams is in the center. The lady on the right is unidentified.

Sharing a chuckle about a bygone era.

Don and Darlene Matthesen are among the many regular attendees of the monthly gatherings of the society.

Paul Higbee shared this old flyer from Right-On Productions, promoting an appearance by Sugarloaf at the Spearfish Park Pavilion. Their hit "Great Eyed Lady" raced to the top of the pop charts in 1970.

Gary Mule Deer was an unexpected and delightful bonus for folks attending the January meeting. Another native of Spearfish, Gary joined Paul Higbee in sharing stories about the rich history of the old Park Pavilion, especially during the rock 'n roll era.

Much to everyone's delight, Gary Mule Deer brought along his guitars and helped the audience float back in time through some music from those bygone days.

Mule Deer and Miller chat following their January presentation at the Senior Citizens Center in Spearfish.

Mule Deer started his musical career as Gary Miller and formed a band with a group of other Black Hills State University students in 1961. He has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, as well as Late Night with David Letterman, where he's demonstrated his talent as a comedian. In January 2009, he performed at Carnegie Hall.