Sarge Boyd Bandshell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Owen Park Bandshell
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 Location in Wisconsin
Location in the United States
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| Location | Owen Park 501 First Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1938 |
| Architect | Alexander Garnock |
| Architectural style | Art Deco |
| NRHP reference No. | 03000896 |
| Added to NRHP | September 02, 2003 |
The Sarge Boyd Bandshell is a special outdoor stage in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. It is home to the city's oldest community music group. This bandshell has been very important for the music and culture of the whole Chippewa Valley area.
A city engineer named Alexander Garnock designed the building. He wanted a place for the Eau Claire Municipal Band to perform. Its official name is the Donald I. "Sarge" Boyd Bandshell. But when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, it was called the Owen Park Bandshell.
History of the Bandshell
The bandshell was built in 1938. It was a project of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The WPA was a government program that helped people find jobs during a difficult time. Building the bandshell cost about $10,000.
A Community Gathering Spot
The historic bandshell is often called the "centerpiece" of Owen Park. It is used for many different events. Besides the Municipal Band concerts, people use it for weddings and church services. Speeches, plays, and movies have also been shown there. Festivals, fairs, and other public gatherings often take place at the bandshell.
Since 2009, the Chippewa Valley Blues Society has hosted a concert series there. These "Tuesday Night Blues" concerts happen from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The concerts in 2020 were canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Honoring "Sarge" Boyd
In 1992, the bandshell was dedicated to Donald I. "Sarge" Boyd. He was a master showman and musician. For 50 years, he contributed greatly to the city's music scene. He had a big impact on almost everyone who worked with him.
