2002-21 DESIGNATING A LANDMARK LINCOLN SQUARE THEATRE AND INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS - 141-145 NORTH MAIN STREET

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Whv the Lincoln Sc�uare Theatre should be listed as a locat landmark Criterion A: has value as part of the heritage and cultural development of Decatur • Was the first large-scale theatre to open in Decatur in 1916 o Considered a status symbol in this time period separating the small towns from the big cities. • Has been the site of numerous fine art productions including musical acts, variety shows, plays, operas, and films. o The list of performers is quite lengthy, a few of the more famous have been: ■ A1 Jolson ■ World Heavy Weight Bo�ng Champion, Jack Dempsey ■ Bob Hope ■ Magician Harry Blackstone ■ Musical Group Alabama o Has provided a forum for these performers and many lesser known performers to grow professionally and impact the audiences on various degrees • IOOF worked to elevate the character of mankind through various projects and affairs o Their meetings and many events were all held at the Hall which worked to improve the Decatur Community Criterion D: as a distinguished architectural type • Architectural Style is Classic Revival Theme o Fiberglass and metal theatre marquee o Mezzanine level o Terra cotta adornments • The first large-scale theatre of its type in Decatur • One of two remaining historic theatres remaining in Decatur Today o At one time there were about 9 historic theatres Criterion E: as an example of a design by a local master architect • Designed by Charles Aschauer of Aschauer and Waggoner of Decatur o Also designed the Staley Building (1929) o Designed Blessed Sacrament 5chool and Convent in Springfield (1933) o This fum contributed greatly to the architecture of Decatur and the area Criterion H: as an architectural innovation • Fireproofing the building was innovative for the time period and to Decatur o Installed 2-foot thick gypsum wall around the theatre's auditorium o Placed the Boilers in the basement of the adjoining IOOF Hall