The stock market crash of October 29, 1929 ushered in a decade of insecurity and instability, at times approaching chaos, and the nation’s most severe economic depression. Within a few years the world’s mightiest economy teetered on the brink of collapse. With an economy based largely on small family farms, Otter Tail County was better prepared to face the depression than many other areas. Still, it was not easy, as one county resident recalled, “those were rough times, fellows would do anything to keep body and soul together.” In response to the Great Depression, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt initiated the New Deal, a series of public projects designed to get people back to work.

One of the most effective programs was the Work Progress Administration, or WPA as it became widely known, through which funds were given to communities for public works projects.

One of these projects was the 1940 remodeling of the New York Mills City Hall. Completed during the tenure of Mayor John Mark, the government put up $85,000 while the city had to contribute $15,000. Some local residents felt that was still a high price to pay. When one naysayer asked the Mayor what would happen if the city could not pay for the bonds, Mayor Mark replied, “we make it so big they can’t move it.” And when another complained that city hall was made of money, the Mayor responded, “no, it’s made of concrete.” As the town’s first full-time mayor, John Mark--a very colorful and capable person, left his “mark” on the community during his 30-year mayoral term with many progressive improvements, including not only the City Hall building, but water, sewer, curb and gutter, paved streets and sidewalks, and the Smith Park track and football field.

Built to stand the test of time, the Art Deco styled City Hall is a cornerstone in New York Mills. The building has been the source for a variety of businesses and community events throughout the years. The grand ballroom has hosted many events including wedding dances, Christmas Tree Festivals, community dances, private parties and meetings, but probably the most endearing, residents fondly remember weekly roller skating parties in the ballroom.