Williston North Dakota Raffle Offers Rare Piece of Local History for Just $5

A piece of local history is being revived—and helping a great cause right here in Williston.

A unique fundraiser is now underway through the volunteer auxiliary group at CHI St. Alexius Health – Williston, featuring a one-of-a-kind bench with deep roots in the community. The bench originally began as a pew inside the former Methodist Church in Grenora, a place filled with years of memories for local families before it eventually closed its doors.

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From Church Pew to Community Treasure

When the church closed, several pews were given to members of the congregation. Some kept them intact, while others—like one local family—carefully cut and refinished them into smaller benches that could be used in their homes. Over time, one of those benches changed hands and eventually found its way to Ronda Peterson, who recently donated it to the hospital gift shop to support a meaningful fundraiser.

Now, that bench is at the center of a raffle that blends history, craftsmanship, and community spirit.

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A Knod To The Past

To preserve its story, a custom plaque has been created and will be attached to the back of the bench. It honors the legacy of the church and ensures that whoever wins it will also carry on its history for years to come.

Along with the bench itself, photos of the original church and earlier stages of the pew’s transformation help tell the full story—from a place of worship to a cherished keepsake.

Get Your Raffle Ticket Now

Raffle tickets are available now at the hospital gift shop inside CHI St. Alexius Health – Williston for just $5 each, offering an affordable chance to own a truly special piece of local history. The drawing is set for June 6th.

Here's the best part. All proceeds from the raffle will go toward purchasing patient equipment, directly benefiting local care and the community as a whole.

It’s a simple idea with a meaningful impact—honoring the past while supporting the future of healthcare in Williston and our region.