Memorial Building (Topeka, Kansas) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Memorial Building
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Dedication ceremonies of Memorial Hall, 1914
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| Location | 120 West 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas |
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| Built | 1914 |
| Architect | Charles Chandler |
| Architectural style | Renaissance Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 75000724 |
| Added to NRHP | July 17, 1975 |
The Memorial Building, also known as G.A.R. Memorial Hall, is a special historic building located in Topeka, Kansas. It was built to honor the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.). The G.A.R. was an organization for soldiers who fought for the Union during the American Civil War. This important building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 17, 1975. This means it is recognized as a significant historical place in the United States.
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Building History and Purpose
The Memorial Building was constructed using money paid to the State of Kansas by the federal government. This money was called "war claims." It was a way for the government to pay Kansas back for its help during past conflicts.
Funding the Construction
Kansas received two main payments. One payment, about $97,000, was for getting soldiers ready for the American Civil War. The other payment, over $425,000, was for defending against attacks from Confederate soldiers. It also covered dealing with American Indian conflicts.
Planning and Building
In 1909, the Kansas government passed a law to set aside money for the building. A special group, called a commission, was chosen to find the perfect spot. They also made sure the land was properly bought. This commission then oversaw the construction of Memorial Hall.
On September 27, 1911, a very important event happened. The President at the time, William Howard Taft, helped lay the ceremonial cornerstone. This is a special stone placed at the start of a building project. The building was finished in 1914. Its dedication ceremony on May 27, 1914, was a huge event, with about 25,000 people attending.
Modern Use of the Building
Since the year 2000, the Memorial Hall has continued to be an important government building. It now serves as the main office for the Kansas Attorney General. This person is the chief legal officer for the state. It is also home to the Kansas Secretary of State. This official handles many important state records and elections.
