Bentley’s historical gathering place, the Monkey Top Saloon, gets demolished

He described the history of the building, dating back to the town’s incorporation in 1915.

The first mayor of the town, Frank “Cappy” Thorp, owned the original building, named after himself and co-owner Archie Putland. While it was destroyed by a fire in 1919, it was then replaced by the Bentley Co-Operative and then the Bentley Mercantile during the Great Depression era in the 1930s, selling a variety of goods under the management of WM. A. Holmes.

Fortais says the building became “a sign of the times” as it modernized over the years and brought the community closer together. First receiving supplies by train and horseback, Holmes then purchased a truck to pick up supplies directly from Edmonton and would even deliver groceries from his store to more rural areas.

Deemed a Heritage Building in the town, it later became the Monkey Top Saloon.

“The Monkey Top was a staple for residents, tourists and visitors regardless if they were the leather-worn, done-it-all biker of the time, or the worn seen-it-all senior, or families having a meal with their kids after checking out the amazing businesses and farmer’s market in Bentley. It was a place of celebration for hockey and ball teams and for parents who would drive their kids to and from games and practices,” he said.

Bentley’s Monkey Top Saloon being demolished. (rdnewsNOW/Alessia Proietti)

Fortais said residents came to the establishment for a variety of reasons including listening to live music and for bikers passing along Highway 12 on their way to Rocky Mountain House.

“The Monkey Top was not just a place to gather but a place where it did not matter what your background or style was. It was a place of spirited declaration of independence and togetherness,” he said.

On a personal level, he reminisced on frequenting the establishment with his family and to hold business meetings, where he received great food and service, and appreciated the historical atmosphere.

While the cause remains unknown, Fortais said the Fire Chief confirmed it is not suspicious in nature. He added the landowner is still assessing with insurance before deciding what to do with the property.

He said the loss was a significant hit for the community, particularly from an economic and tourism perspective, but they are remaining positive.

Fortais explained that from a town perspective, they are open for business, with a new grocery store in the works and their annual farmer’s market from May long weekend to Labour Day attracting roughly 2,000 visitors every Saturday.

“It’s important for people to realize that yes, it’s a significant loss to the community but we’re still here and we’re still able to serve the tourist community and people that want to come check out the unique characteristics of our small town,” he said.

The Town has also recently completed an Area Redevelopment Plan for their southeast commercial and industrial land, are working on an annexation with Lacombe County, and have affordable residential lots for sale in the north end with a low cost of living for those interested in building their dream home.

Fortais confirmed the demolition should be complete by the end of next week.

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by Alessia Proietti

Bentley’s historical gathering place, the Monkey Top Saloon, gets demolished

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