Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, the historic sites of the Urbana area are a fascinating way to appreciate the long and storied history of our area. Here are just a few of the sites you’ll find close to home.
Busey’s Hall/Princess Theater
The only historic theater in Urbana, the Princess is located at 120 West Main Street. Built by the Busey Brothers, part of Urbana’s founding family, the theater served first as an opera house and, as time marched on and films became the more popular form of entertainment, a movie theater. The building was originally built in 1870 using brick, which was a switch from the more common wood construction. It is believed that the Busey Brothers chose brick due to the devastating fires which consumed many wooden-construction buildings of the era. In 1915, the Princess Theater was opened. In 1934, a gorgeous Art-Deco renovation was added to the building which included enameled brick and a new marquee featuring a maroon and white color scheme and plenty of neon.
Today, the Cinema Cafe currently occupies the space and pays homage to its’ storied past by displaying several important pieces. In the cafe you can view the original theater sign, incredible Art Deco-style pieces and much more.
The Princess is a great stop on your tour of historic Urbana, providing a sweet reminder of a simpler time.
The Freeman House
Located at 504 West Elm Street, the Freeman house was owned by Gus Freeman. Freeman also owned the historic Princess Theater. The house itself is a wonderful example of the Classical Revival style of architecture, and is the only house in the area to feature this unique style.
Gothic Revival Cottage
Charming and unique, the Gothic Revival Cottage is located at 108 North Webber Street. The cottage is unique in its combination of both Gothic and Greek Revival styles, which are evidenced by gingerbread trim work, pointed arched windows and one-story porch. The porch, in particular, sets this home apart, as this style element is seen in only eighty percent of Gothic Revival homes. The cottage is one of only a few surviving Gothic Revival homes in the area.
Tiernan’s Block/Masonic Temple
Built in 1871 and located at 115 West Main Street, this building has a long history. The first floor originally served as a grocery store, while the third was a popular opera house. The opera house is still fully intact. For over one-hundred years, the building served as the area’s Masonic Temple, with many prominent local figures attending meetings.
Ezekiel Boyden Home
Located at 404 West Illinois Street, the Boyden home is notable for its most famous guest – President Abraham Lincoln. According to records, the beloved President was a guest of Boyden – an Urbana mayor – on September 4th, 1858.
Take a Trip Through History
While the current sites of Urbana make quite a tour on their own, there’s nothing like taking a step back in time and reliving the area’s historic moments. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, an architecture enthusiast or simply a history buff, historic Urbana has something for everybody!
Source: The City of Urbana, Community Development Services. Photo credit: Lauren Kerestes