Background on the Project:
Originally built in 1851 as a one-room schoolhouse, the G.A.R. Hall was remodeled in 1888 as a meeting place for Civil War veterans. Fast forward to today and this grand building has become a focal point of community engagement, education and entertainment in the quaint Village of Peninsula. It serves as a destination for
community gatherings, educational programs on historic and cultural preservation, and most notably the G.A.R. Hall is known for its presentation of Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music.
Both nationally renowned and local favorites have graced the stage of this acoustically perfect hall. The building serves as a destination, both for its programming and as an economic engine for the Village of Peninsula. With over 1,280 events and attendance numbers of 83,200 patrons, the G.A.R. Hall serves as a connector to the greater Cuyahoga Valley. Our patrons hike and bike in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and eat
and shop in our local establishments.
As is the case with many historical buildings, accessibility is difficult. Steps to get into the building and restrooms on the basement level make it difficult for those with mobility issues to enjoy the programming in comfort at the G.A.R. Hall. The Peninsula Foundation is committed to making the building accessible for all. The addition of a new lobby and handicapped accessible restrooms on the first floor will ensure that everyone has access to the programming we present and the amenities they need.
The G.A.R. Hall addition will help us continue our mission to preserve the heritage, maintain the character and promote the vitality of Peninsula, Ohio and the Cuyahoga Valley by engaging the community through arts and educational programming and historic preservation. This addition will provide the access our patrons deserve, providing ease of entry to the Hall and accessibility to restrooms on the main level, while preserving the remarkable architecture and flawless acoustics that make every performance one to remember.
“Every valid music town
(Austin, Boston, San Fran,
Asheville, etc.) is anchored
by a venue that supports
“its own,” and offers an audience the opportunity
to enjoy world-class entertainers, in an intimate setting, with superlative
sound and presentation.
If you’re lucky, it would have
all these qualities, and be venerable, inviting and cool. Well, hands down, in
Northeast Ohio, that venue is
the G.A.R. Hall in Peninsula, where people meet, music grows, and the acoustic based, roots music scene prospers.”
- Paul Kovac
"In an uncertain world...one
thing is for certain. The
G.A.R. Hall remains a regional
treasure where music and emotion always connect to audiences in deep and authentic ways. It's a place where you are immersed in
the experience completely and
intimately. The G.A.R. Hall offers a taste of the Pure Drop!”
- Alex Bevan
We need YOUR help to complete this exciting project!
Send a donation securely through PayPal today
For those donors who would like to create a lasting legacy, we offer naming opportunities for your consideration. Please call the Peninsula Foundation at (330) 657-2528 or email us at info@peninsulahistory.org for information on how your gift can include your name on one of the following:
- The G.A.R. Hall Addition
- Gathering Area
- Stage
All donors whose gifts are at $500 and above will be included on a donor wall in the G.A.R. Hall addition.
