Friend Historical Society/Warren Opera House
The Warren Opera House, a grand old lady in her day, was the premier place for social gatherings. It faithfully served Friend and surrounding communities for thirty-four years, providing a venue for plays, dances, lectures, political events, sporting events and even a circus! No remaining comparable structure exists within a fifty mile range of the town of Friend.
In January 2005, a group of concerned citizens formed the Friend Historical Society. Members of the Society saw need to form a permanent organization to promote the restoration of the Warren Opera House, and have formed the Restoration Committee. The Opera House was generously donated to the Society by the Yokel family, long time purveyors of hardware and furniture in Friend.
The Friend Historical Society is organized exclusively for charitable purposes as a 501 (c) 3. Our goals are:
- To promote and encourage activites and functions that benefit the quality of life and enjoyment of residents in Friend, NE and the surrounding area;
- To acquire and operate a non-profit opera house, museum and other cultural activities to enhance the surrounding area;
- To enlist public support and to encourage public involvement in the promotion and implementation of the services and activities; and
- To aid or assist other organizations whose activities are such as to further, accomplish, foster or attain such purposes as set forth herein.
It is our commitment to work to restore the Historic Warren Opera House and to preserve the historical buildings in our community.
San Carlo Room, 511 2nd Street, Suite B - More than 3000 sq. ft. of historic ambience available for weddings, reunions, parties, and entertaining. For more information about availability and rental rates, contact Marla Weber at 947-7901 or Carey Potter at 730-0276.