Frank Galloway is a contractor who was off work last May due to a neck injury. Then, he said, when he was healed there was no work to come back to. So, using his wood working talents in new ways, Galloway now fashions, markets and sells domino holders.

“We’re doing what we can to make a few bucks during this recession,” said Galloway. 

Although not an official number, Galloway says he sees 80% unemployment for construction workers right now in Ravalli County. 

He began making the domino holders after a friend had brought one to a domino game but it was too flimsy. He thought “I can do better”. So he made some and “someone walked by and asked if I was selling so I sold that set and just started making more for friends and family". He realized there was a market and began making them in earnest. 

He has currently sold over 100 sets of four. He uses hickory, pine, and oak, natural or stained, then coated with a clear lacquer. He even has some made from trex facia board (decking material), and he’ll do special orders out of what ever wood you’d like. 

He’s also making hand-pulled log railing coat racks with hooks or antler sheds. “Eventually we’ll get a web site up and get them on line. We’re going to apply for a ‘Made in Montana’ ranking.  With any luck it will pay off" Galloway explained.

His  domino holders are on “permanent display” at the Second Street Market at 175 South Second Street, in Hamilton. “The Second Street Market was just a blessing,” said Galloway. “My dominoes are right in the front of the store – right when you walk in so they’re for sale all the time.” (See more on the Second Street Market in a related story).

The domino holders are also available in the Old West Gallery, the Paper Clip and by calling him at 370-1895. 

“There’s nothing this quality out there for domino holders. If you’re a domino fan and you use one of my holders you’ll never play dominos with out one,” said Galloway.

- Michelle McConnaha reporting for kpax.com