PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION Box 2555, Station A,Champaign, 61820

"The GPast Has cA 'Future"

Vol. 9 May-June, 1989 #3

ORPHEUM THEATER ENDANGERED

The City of Champaign has purchased an or help "brain storm" on other ideas con- design of the building were kept quiet option on the historic Orpheum Theater in tact PACA. This is an exciting project that until the opening of the theater. downtown Champaign. The building site needs lots of citizen input. is one of several under consideration as The Orpheum Theater's architect, George Rapp, was a principle founder of the re- the location of a new parking lot or parking nown architectural firm garage. If the Orpheum site is chosen, this of Rapp and historic and architecturally significant Rapp. The firm was famous for its theater designs and was responsible for over 400 building will be demolished. PACA is in the midst of organizing a campaign to save theaters including the Chicago Theater this important building and needs your (1921), Bismarck Hotel and Theater (1926), help. and the Paramount Theaters in New York (1926) and Aurora, IL (1931). The majority of their theaters were What Can You Do? built in the 1920s, therefore the Champaign Orpheum is im- all PACA and let us know of your inter- portant as an early Rapp theater design. est in saving the theater. More important- Most of their theater designs were derived ly, let the City of Champaign know of your from about eight schematic types, mod- concern for saving the Orpheum: Call or ified and combined according to the re- write Mayor Dannel McCollum and your quirements of each program. Eighteenth- city council representative (102 N. Neil St., and nineteenth-century French classical Champaign). The issue is two-fold, 1) the sources provided the primary inspiration Orpheum Theater site is not the optimum for their lavish interiors, and the Orpheum location for a parking garage whose pur- is a good example of their early French pose is to serve the entire downtown area, palatial style. The Orpheum design was and 2) the Orpheum Theater is too impor- the basis for the Versailles-inspired tant a building to lose. A Letter to the Ringling Memorial Theater (1917) in Editor of the News Gazette could be help- Baraboo, Wisconsin. ful as well as any activity that lets the City and other citizens know how important Opening night for the Champaign the Orpheum Theater is to the community Original facade of Orpheum Theater from Orpheum, Monday, October 19, 1914, is a good idea. Great American Movie Theaters by David proved to be a well-attended and splashy event. Numerous Chicago businessmen PACA is also looking for developers and/ Naylor. came down for the opening, and local or investors willing to help bring this residents thronged to see the new theater. wonderful building back to life. A small Historical Background Although the seating capacity was over a group of concerned citizens has started thousand, people had to be turned away this process, but they need willing and The Orpheum Theater was constructed in since there was not enough room to ac- able volunteers. Because of the historic 1914 as a vaudeville theater, but was also commodate them. Champaign Mayor and architectural significance of this build- equipped to show "moving pictures." The Dobbin attended the opening and declared ing, the State Historic Preservation Agency architect was George W. Rapp, a 1899 the theater the finest in the area. has given a preliminary determination alumnus of the University of Illinois at the building is eligible for listing on School of Architecture; Joseph M. Finn Great care was taken in the construction of National Register of Historic Places, and Marcus Heiman were the owners and the building. It far surpassed the fireproof- and is also eligible for rehabilitation tax builders of the theater. F & H Amusement ing requirements of the city, and the heat- credits. If you would like to help this Company and the Western Vaudeville ing and electrical systems were quite ad- group develop a plan to use the Orpheum Managers Association were also associated vanced. Air was admitted into the theater for a community theater/meeting center, with the Orpheum. Details on the interior in stages through a giant ventilator in the dome of the ceiling. This ventilator still At the third stop, First Presbyterian about this program. Should you require remains. The stage had its own ventilating Church, the tour was met by a short, but further information, contact the FNMA system so that in case of fire the stage wonderful organ recital. Paul VanArsdell, manager of public information at 202/752- curtain could be dropped and the area, the church historian, gave some brief 6527. self-contained. In addition, originally highlights of the congregation's past, at At this time there was a fountain in the entrance foyer. this, Champaign's oldest church building. the National Trust for The Orpheum was the most ornate and Historic Preservation does not off Orrie Fairchild and Dr. Gary Fritz of the elaborate theater in the area, and much of financial assistance to individuals restoring First United Methodist Church this original integrity still remains. explained residential properties. Although the Trust the history of the congregation and its is not able to provide financial assistance In 1930 the theater was taken over by the large church complex. Tour participants for individuals, it does administer several RKO movie chain and since that time some were encouraged to explore the entire grant and loan programs for nonprofit remodelling and updating has taken place. building, even the third floor gymnasium. organizations. The Trust regional office New seating was installed in 1965, and in The contemporary sanctuary, dating from serving your area can answer specific 1967 between $50-60,000 was spent on a 1965 remodeling, was a surprise to those questions about these programs. modernization which included installing only familiar with the Gothic Revival ex- the metal grid facade (the original facade, terior of the building. Additional References: minus the cornice, still remains behind PACA wishes to thank all of the congrega- this "skin"), new glass doors, the box Preservation Easements. Available from tions for opening up these special places office, the refreshment stand, a "space- Maryland Historical Trust, 21 State Circle, age" screen, new projection equipment, for our tour group. A special thanks to all Annapolis, MD 21401. (301) 269-2212. of the hosts who gave up their Sunday new carpeting, and remodelling of the afternoon and who shared their church restrooms and the front lobby. The Landowners Options: A Guide to the with us in an exciting and knowledgeable Voluntary Protectionof Land in Maine. Avail- Kerasotes purchased the building from the fashion. able from the Maine Coast Heritage Trust, RKO chain in 1971. Since then only some 335 Water Street, Augusta, ME 04330. cosmetic repainting of the interior features (207) 622-1576. has taken place. The theater was used as a FINANCING THE RESTORATION Revival-Art Film theater in 1982, but has "Charitable Gifts of Partial Interests in OF AN OLD HOUSE been closed since 1983. Since then the in- Real Property for Conservation Purposes". terior of the theater has deteriorated, but it Preserving an old house can be an ex- The Tax Lawyer, No. 69. Fall, 1975. is not beyond saving. pensive venture. And unfortunately, there are no federal funds available for Virginia's Heritage:A PropertyOwner's Guide (The above information was compiled restoration of historic properties used only to Resource Protection. Lois Snyderman, from "The Orpheui, An Arts Center for as residences unless the property qualifies Samuel -N. Stokes, -and A. Elizabet Champaign County," by Vivian Young, as low income housing. If this is the case, Watson, edited by Constance K. 1981; "Rapp and Rapp," Macmillan the Department of Housing and Urban Chamberlin. Available from Department Encyclopedia of Architects; Great American Development does have special funding of Conservation and Historic Resources, Movie Theaters by David Naylor.) for certain projects. 203 Governor Street, Richmond, VA 23219; 1988. Currently there is only one federal tax incentive for the restoration of historic HISTORIC CHURCH TOUR houses and that is for properties included The Conservation Easement Handbook. Janet on The National Register of Historic Places Diehl and Thomas S. Barrett. A complete Over 65 people gathered for the First (or those within a National Register dis- "how-to" guide. Available from Land Historic Church Tour conducted by PACA trict) that are to be used for income-pro- Trust Exchange, 1017 Duke Street, Alex- on Sunday, May 21. At the first tour stop, ducing purposes. The National Register is andria, VA 22314; 703/683-7778. $19.95 Holy Cross Catholic Church, participants the official national list of historically or plus $2.75 postage and handling (for one were fortunate to have the history of the architecturally significant buildings and is copy) prepaid. parish and the recent renovation work ex- maintained by the . plained to them by noted church renova- If you are considering an income-produc- Preserving Family Lands: A Landowner's tion designer Harry Breen. As at all of the ing use for your property, you should Introduction to Tax Issues and Others churches, tour participants were encour- contact your State Historic Preservation Considerations. Stephen J. Small, Esq. aged to walk around and examine "up Officer (SHPO) to follow proper guidelines Available from Powers & Hall Professional close and personal" different aspects of for the Investment Tax Credit. In Illinois, Corporation, 100 Franklin Street, Boston, the sanctuary. contact the Illinois Historic Preservation MA 02110, 1988. Sue Feuille hosted the group at Emmanuel Agency, Old State Capitol, Springfield, IL 62701 217-785-4512. Memorial Episcopal Church. The history Tax Policy: Federal Estate Tax on Historic of the church and its architectural signifi- There is one national loan program for Properties. Report to the Honorable Paul S. cance as a liturgically correct "English restoration of historic residences which Trible, U.S. Senate, March 1988. U.S. Parish" church as designed by the well might be of interest. It is entitled "Fannie General Accounting Office, Post Office known New York architect, Ralph Adams Mae's Rehab Program" and is sponsored Box 6015, Gaithersburg, MD 20877; 202' Cram, was delightfully presented. The by the Federal National Mortgage Associa- 275-6241. First five copies free. group was also presented with details of tion (FNMA). The program is administered the exciting renovation work planned for on the local level through most financial Emmanuel Memorial in the very near institutions. You should contact any (Prepared by the National Trust for future. Fannie Mae-approved lender and inquire Historic Preservation.) RESTORE THE REHAB LEGISLATIVE ISSUES IN ological and paleontological sites on state CREDITS ILLINOIS property and give the IHPA exclusive right to survey or excavate such sites. The In February, legislation was introduced in Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois bill would penalize those who disturb sites Congress to restore the vitality of the his- (LPCI) has been very active this spring on state land without IHPA permission. For sites Srehabilitation tax credit. Since 1986, with preservation legislation in Illinois: not containing human remains infractions would be misdemeanors, with passive activity rules contained in the The Illinois State Agency Historic Resources penalties of prison and a fine up to $5,000. Tax Reform Act have significantly reduced Preservation Act (SB 69) was written by Any violation of human remains would be the use of both the rehabilitation tax credit LPCI with the cooperation of several state a felony. (by about two-thirds) and the low income agencies. The bill, introduced by Sen. housing credit. John D'Arco (D-Chicago), will require all SB 1420, introduced by Senator O'Daniel State-funded projects to undergo a review (D - Mt. Vernon), would provide a tax Known as the Community Revitalization to determine their effect on historic re- abatement for historic farm buildings. At a Tax Act of 1989 (H.R. 796, S. 342), the sources. The bill would not block a project hearing of the Senate Revenue Committee, legislation would: if it damages or destroys a historic resource, over 20 individuals and groups were ready 1. exempt the rehabilitation and low in- but would provide a negotiating period to testify in favor of the bill. Staff member come housing credits from passive activity where the Illinois Historic Preservation Sean Murphy was asked by the Committee rules. Losses from rehabilitation and low Agency (IHPA) or private groups can Chair to testify on behalf of the Illinois income housing projects would remain work with the agency involved to develop preservation community. The bill would subject to the rules. alternatives. allow farmers to apply for a tax abatement on farm buildings that are over 50 years 2. tighten the limitations on individual The legislation is popularly called "State old and have 75% of their original walls tax payer use of all business tax credits, 106" after Section 106 of the National intact. Residences are not covered under including the rehabilitation and low in- Preservation Act. Currently, all federally the bill. Rural Illinois has been dramatic- come housing credits. funded projects must undergo review by ally altered in the past decade as tradi- the IHPA. Staff at the IHPA state that tional farm structures have been replaced agencies understand the need for such Taxpayers would be permitted $20,000 of by non-descript aluminum warehouses. reviews and are cooperative. In many credits in a year plus an amount equal to 20 Illinois has lost more barns and out build- cases, the Federal 106 review has resulted percent of additional tax liability. The ings than all other large midwestern states. in a compromise to help save an historic credits would no longer be tied to a $7000 Though it is more economical for farmers resource. Brad White, LPC's Vice President limit or based on the amount of passive to rehab existing structures than to replace for Legislation states "LPCI believes that income a taxpayer could claim. them, the resulting higher taxes have the State of Illinois should lead the way in wiped out the potential savings. :It is resentatives Cardiss Collins, Charles preservation. If this bill is passed, the ex- hoped that this tax abatement will reverse Iayes and Lynn Martin of Illinois are ample set by the government can encour- the trend to replace traditional structures. three of the bill's 65 sponsors. PACA urges age more private citizens and developers The bill has passed the Senate Revenue you to contact your to act responsibly with our historic re- representative and Committee. Senators Dixon and Simon to promote sources." SB 69 has passed the Executive passage of this important legislation. Its Committee and awaits a second reading LPCI has also assisted State Sen. Judy Baar enactment means the preservation of on the Senate floor. Topinka in drafting a resolution creating a thousands of historic buildings nationwide. Task Force on Sacred Spaces to investigate SB 1613, the "Archaelogical and Paleonto- the preservation of significant historic logical Resource Protection Act," intro- religious properties. From Landmarks Preservation Council of duced by Senator D'Arco at the request of Illinois June Newsletter. LPCI and the IHPA, would protect archae- From the June Newsletter of LPCI.

" -"--r Membership Application P.A.C.A. MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY: INDIVIDUAL E Adult ...... $10.00 [ RENEWAL El NEW MEMBERSHIP E Student (V/2time or more) ...... $ 5.00 E Senior Citizen ...... $ 5.00 E Additional Contribution E Family (includes all members of a household with no more than two members being over age 21) ...... $15.00

CIVIC ADDRESS Street l Over 100 members ...... $100.00 E 50-100 members ...... $ 75.00

E Up to 50 members ...... $ 50.00 City State Zip CORPORATE O ...... $50.00 Make checks payable to: PACA, Box 2555, Station A, Champaign, Illinois 61825 ,77\\

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- - - - s v \ Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. \ . \ \ hI------\\\B PACA BOARD NEWS NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS PACA Board members often get asked While not in immediate danger of demoli- what role they and the organization play tion, the curvilinear greenhouse is slated Mr. & Mrs. Donald Miller in the community. To help answer that for removal in the future. PACA would Helen Peterson question for our new members and to keep rather not wait for a "crisis situation" but Caroline Hibbard our old members informed of Board activi- is working now to find a new location for Steve & Kathy Roemmel ties, here is a summary of some of the this significant building. James & Mare Payne larger projects PACA is currently involved Mrs. Donald V. Dobbins inm. Governmental Dealings - PACA is ac- Lynn W. Manley Orpheum Theater - PACA is trying to tively involved with the Campus to Tony & Mary Graham save this historic building from demoli- Downtown land use study currently being Debbie Nelson & Paul Joffe tion. See related story. conducted by the Urbana Plan Commission. Arthur & Glenna Bartell PACA has met with Plan Commission Mr. & Mrs. Robert Rogers Cohen House - During the month of staff and testified at public hearings on Mr. & Mrs. David Lazarus June, PACA should be resolving the fu- behalf of historic preservation and the Mr. William J. Donaldson ture of the Cohen House, 511 West Elm, possible establishment of historic districts. Mr. & Mrs. Roger Prillaman Urbana. If things go as planned, the house The Champaign Intown Study has also Mrs. Thomas D. Roberts been closely monitored by PACA; staff will be moved to a new location in east Fred & Nancy Delcomyn discussions and public testimony have Urbana, otherwise a salvage sale will be Shirley Stillinger also been given. The Board is currently conducted by the First Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Nina Rubel reviewing Illinois historic district ordinances PACA has been involved in this project Trent Shepard in preparation for the submission of an since last November. Louisette Zuidema ordinance to the Champaign City Council Carol Davis Phillips Farmhouse - PACA is involved for their consideration. In addition, PACA with the UI's Historic Sites Committee in testified on behalf of the Inman Hotel's trying to find a new and affordable use for conversion to elderly housing and sup- this building. The Phillips Farmhouse is a ported the necessary parking waiver. Salvage Donations two-story log structure built circa 1850 and currently owned by the University. In addition to the above activities, the Champion Federal Board is involved with the Salvage Ware- Ron Larkin Hazen Bridge - PACA is working with house operation, the planning of events anonymous donation bridge neighbors and Newcomb Township such as the church tour and annual mem- Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Corkery officials to find a party willing to take over bership meeting, and the answering of ownership of this historic and scenic metal requests for preservation information and Volunteers In Preservation truss bridge which spans the Sangamon help from outside parties. All of our mem- River north of Mahomet. A new span is PACA wishes to thank the following vol- bers are encouraged to discuss any of the slated to replace the old bridge, but county unteers for their gifts of time and talent to above projects with Board members, vol- officials are willing to save the historic further historic preservation in Champaign unteer to help on any project and/or bridge if a new owner is found. County. attend any Board meeting. Meetings are "Presidents Greenhouse" - Another UI/ held the second Monday of the month at Steve Roemmel Hank Kaczmarski PACA project is to find a new "home" for the Greek Revival Cottage basement be- Kathy Roemmel Rex Kummer the 1898 North Greenhouse located on ginning at 7:30 pm. Bring your ideas and Susan Appel Bob Swisher Burrill Avenue on the engineering campus. enthusiasm. Dick Davis Mark Replogle

PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION

Box 2555, Station A, Champaign,Illinois 61825 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PACA Newsletter PAID Published by the Preservation and CHAMPAIGN, IL Conservation Association PERMIT NO. 133 President: Kennedy Hutson Vice President: James Dobrovolny Secretary/Treasurer: Patricia Jensen

328-PACA

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