The Hip StripThe "Hip Strip" The Hip Strip

Media Room

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: (Date TBA)

CONTACT: WestRidge Creative, 406.327.1596

Historic “Babs” Building to Be Renovated

Missoula, MT—On Thursday, March 13, 2008, the historic ‘Babs’ building on South 4th Street West, in the ‘Hip Strip’ on South Higgins, transferred to new owners with a promise for a return to it’s glory days of old.

“We recognize the importance of restoring the Babs and preserving the stories of those who have lived there. We will be renovating the building to create 1920s-themed premium condominiums,” said Tim Seibly. “We want to ensure the Babs continues on in good stead for the next one hundred years.”

Seibly (pronounced ‘SIB-LEE’), is the managing director of Tevirra, a Montana development company that specializes in high-quality and distinctive residential and commercial projects.

“Our name reflects our values, which are to preserve and enhance the character and integrity of our projects,” said Seibly, who recently moved back to the northern Rocky Mountains to make Missoula home for himself and his family. “We look forward to restoring this beautiful building and to preserving its place in the story of Missoula.”

The Babs is an icon in Missoula, designed by Montana’s renowned architect A. J. Gibson. The original architectural drawings date back to 1905, when the building was constructed as luxury apartments. It became the Garden City Commercial College in 1913. Since then, the Babs has enjoyed a rich and vibrant history, from its days as a speakeasy in the Roaring Twenties to its more recent incarnation as student housing. Over the past hundred years, the Babs has served as residence for many artists, writers, and students.

“We start now,” said Seibly, “and we hope others will join us for the tale as it unfolds.”

The new owners hope the Missoula community will participate in the preservation process by sharing stories they may have of the Babs. If you have a recollection, please contact Seibly at: Stories@TheBabsProject.com. Over the next several months, stories will be compiled and shared in the hope that all Missoulians will gain a deeper understanding of their home and the part the Babs has played in its grand heritage.

- 30 -

The Babs Building