About

The story of St. Lawrence Hall is a testament to the enduring community spirit of Old Rayne. The journey began on May 18, 1944, when a committee was formed with the ambitious goal of replacing the aging Union Hall. Over the next decade, the village rallied together, raising funds through beloved local events like the annual Gala Day and dances at Newton House. This grassroots effort was met with significant local generosity, notably from Col. Milne, who gifted the site for the new building. By 1958, with the support of grants from the Scottish Home Department and the Education Committee, the Union Hall was demolished to make way for a modern facility.

St. Lawrence Hall officially opened its doors in May 1959, dedicated by the Rev. Rushforth and opened by Col. Milne. Since its inception, the Hall has served as a vital hub for the village, even housing school classes during its early years. In 1974, the community’s fundraising efforts—including the successful Lourin Fair—led to the formation of the Old Rayne Community Association (ORCA), which managed the venue for decades and oversaw a major refurbishment and extension in the early 1980s. Today, the legacy continues under the St. Lawrence Hall SCIO, ensuring this hard-won community asset remains the heart of Old Rayne for generations to come.