Officers had another privilege denied enlisted men – a Hop Room.  Constructed completely of stone said to have been transported from the Missouri River Breaks, the Hop Room served as the social gathering place for the elect of Fort Assinniboine.
            Rumor has it that the enlisted men volunteered to build this tribute to elegance for the officers, but a more likely scenario is that the volunteers were either ordered or intimidated into doing the work.

The building sported a large ballroom with a hardwood floor that still exists today.  Several antechambers, which probably served as kitchen, dressing room and dining area, are also part of the facility.  A large painting covering one end of the ballroom would also have been a perfect backdrop for plays and musical entertainment.  The painting survives to this day.             Whether being used as a dining

club, theater or dance hall, the Hop Room was truly one of the more unique structures on the post and one much appreciated by the officers wives.  Women in their elegant best could finally show off their social talents and fine silk dresses at functions befitting their status.  Officers too no had a place to entertain visiting dignitaries and justify wearing their fine, gold braided uniforms.             A regimental band, which had its