Neils family member says park signage does not reflect the history of Libby

Letter to the Editor, 

My name is Christine Neils Lee. I am daughter of Herbert Neils, granddaughter of Walter Neils. I was born and raised in Libby.

It has come to my attention that the J. Neils Memorial Park wooden sign has been changed/renovated. The new signage will incorporate a black bull. I’m a bit confused, what does a bull have to do with J. Neils Memorial Park? Please help me to understand what is happening. I am not sure who to talk to and what is happening in Libby.

I do understand that a rodeo is held each summer in the arena area at J. Neils Memorial Park, and it is a great success (I was able to attend a few years ago). I loved the rodeo and appreciate that Libby has a great public horse area. I grew up riding horses across that property back when it was owned privately. However, while the rodeo is a great financial success for Libby, it does not reflect the J. Neils family, it’s heritage or the history of Libby.

I am not against the introduction of new interests in Libby but to incorporate the bull with the J. Neils Memorial sign is misrepresentation of facts and the spirit with which the original J. Neils Memorial Park was dedicated.

This park was originally dedicated in a forested area to represent the history of Libby and the logging traditions on which the town was founded. It is not by coincidence that it was established across the street from the Libby forest Service Station.

What better location for a memorial to the founding fathers of Libby who secured a timber industry in Libby that lasted for almost 100 years. The fact that other uses for the park have evolved is wonderful, but the signage for this park should not be changed at the whim of current use. The sign and park were dedicated to the logging heritage that founded our town, and it should remain so.

Please do not confuse the community. I have found over the years (as we all age) so few are left in Libby who know why our town even exists. We were originally a mining camp, a few souls trying to strike it rich. Then the timber boom and a real town was established. 

My grandfather Walter and his brother, George Neils, cousins and many loggers from Minnesota came to Libby in 1919 to work for the J. Neils Logging Co. This generation is now gone but their children and grandchildren still live in Libby.

I am asking that the signage be left as it was originally intended with the J. Neils Logging heritage intact. Please place the “bull” down near the arena and the new buildings, to honor and reflect on the new rodeo/riding usage of the park.

— Christine Neils Lee

Neils family member