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Funded by "popular subscription" to honor Civil War Veterans, the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall (GAR) has continuously served this purpose since its completion in 1878. Now a widely recognized local landmark, the GAR was threatened with demolition in the early 1960s. Public outcry saved the building then, and the City of Aurora is committed to restoring the building as a local museum that will house many of the original artifacts used by the GAR.
What is the historical significance of this site?
First conceived in 1868, this landmark honors Aurora's Civil War Veterans so "that the soldiers who fought and sacrificed for freedom across this land should be remembered and honored for future generations."
What is the current status of the grant?
The Partners in Preservation grant funded the restoration and recreation of nine original art-glass windows. Because the unusual colors and patterns of historic glass often cannot be replicated with contemporary materials, the Wardell Art Studio adopted a conservation-based approach to the project, preserving and repairing as much of the original decorative glazing as possible.
The window restoration was finished earlier this year and the replication of several missing historic windows will be completed by November 2009. All of the windows will be installed in the building in December, then covered and protected while the interior restoration occurs in 2010.
Why this site needs your support:
The City of Aurora has planned a multi-phased restoration of the entire building. While funds are available to complete some phases of the work, such as masonry and window restoration, additional funding is required. The structure once again needs the support of concerned citizens so that it can become an important focal point and destination in downtown Aurora. For more information about the GAR Memorial Hall Restoration project or to donate to this project, call (630) 844-3648.
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