If community-led efforts continue, the neon lights of The Crump Theatre could serve as more than just a nightlight for downtown Columbus in the future.
Over the past few months, efforts to restore one of the city’s most historic buildings have ramped up.
This fall, local high school seniors Shalee Darringer and Jose Trinidad helped organize community cleanup days, as well as fundraising auctions, to help restore the 131-year-old art deco venue.
Since, several volunteer events have taken place to get the building closer to reopening its doors to the public.
The Crump was built in 1889, and has provided a local stage for everything from opera and silent movies to concerts and performing arts over the years. Headliners at the venue have ranged from abolitionist Frederick Douglass to Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee John Mellencamp.
Located at 425 Third St., the venue has been closed since January 2014 due to safety issues.
While efforts have been made over the years to help restore the building, the current initiative deserves the community’s immediate attention.
In 2019, the venue was named one of Indiana Landmarks 10 Most Endangered structures.
Jessica Schnepp, who is leading the restoration process, recently met with structural engineers from Arsee Engineering of Fishers who are assessing the building to see how far the project still needs to go.
The Crump has undergone numerous renovations over the years, but the current mission could prove the difference in the venue’s survival.
In this season of giving consider giving back to the Crump, a worthy cause in preserving local history.
