Enjoy Twilight at the Twila for Grand Opening This Thursday

The Twila has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the lives and legacy of Aunt Twila and Uncle Clay. Whitehall resident Gretchen Ressler invites you to learn its history and the stories of Aunt Twila and Uncle Clay on Thursday, August 8th at 6 PM for Twilight at the Twila - the grand opening of the Twila Lodging and Events venue. The grand opening will be part of the Whitehall Chamber's Business After Hours quarterly event and is located at The Twila - 107 MT Hwy 2 East. The grand opening will include venue tours, live music, a no-host bar, hors d'oeuvres, networking, and a campfire in the fire ring (weather permitting). If you plan to attend, please get in touch with the Chamber at 406-287-2260 so there is enough food!

At Twilight at the Twila, you will meet Gretchen Ressler, a proud Butte, Montana native and the dedicated hostess of The Twila. She has a lifelong connection to this cherished building, having loved it since she was old enough to notice its unique presence. She often wondered why it sat unused for so many years, its potential seemingly dormant.

Gretchen's journey took her from Butte to the bright lights of Las Vegas, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Communication Studies from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She immersed herself in Strip mega resorts and casinos, gaining extensive knowledge and experience in food, beverage, and hospitality. This expertise was further honed through her work in prestigious hotels in Butte, Montana, and fishing resorts in Alaska.

The Twila began circa 1950 when Uncle Clay and his family constructed the auto shop on South Atlantic Street in historic uptown Butte. The shop, a beacon of mid-20th-century entrepreneurship, specialized in repairing the essential components of the era's automobiles-spokes on car tires, oil pans, and other vital repairs.

After about a decade of successful operations, Aunt Twila and Uncle Clay Snyder decided to relocate. They moved one mile east of the Whitehall City limits. The building was transferred to its current location on six acres of agricultural land by the Tamietti family, who turned it into a multi-use space. They sold alfalfa and hay, and the building saw use in upholstery work. Uncle Clay even sold Christmas trees from there. Over the years, the building witnessed multiple generations before retiring, collecting pieces of history for 65 years.

Aunt Twila, a remarkable woman, was a polio survivor. Despite her handicap, she became an avid fisherwoman and skilled upholstery worker, embodying resilience and determination. She was a woman ahead of her time, and her spirit of entrepreneurialism and hard work influenced the following generations. Under her matriarchal guidance, the building became a symbol of these values and the continuity of care and dedication by the women in the family.

Today, the building has been thoughtfully remodeled and refurbished to welcome travelers, blending its historical essence with modern refinements. It stands as a testament to the industrious spirit and rich history of the Snyder family.

Among the treasured memorabilia is a photograph of Aunt Twila in her jodhpurs, proudly displaying trout in front of her 1938 Ford, immortalizing her adventurous spirit and love for fishing. This cherished photo hangs on the entry-level wall, serving as a favorite and enduring reminder of Twila's legacy and the vibrant history of The Twila. Gretchen Ressler, a proud Butte native and the dedicated hostess of The Twila. Gretchen has a lifelong connection to this cherished building, having loved it since she was old enough to notice its unique presence. She often wondered why it sat unused for so many years, its potential seemingly dormant.

Gretchen's passion for hospitality is matched by her desire to teach entrepreneurialism and education to her sons, involving them in this family-owned business. She loves sharing the history of The Twila and the legacy of her great aunt and uncle, instilling a sense of pride and responsibility in the next generation.

Don't miss Twilight at the Twila this Thursday at 6 PM.