Old Indianapolis City Hall 1910
202 North Alabama Street, Indianapolis, IN 46278
Architect/Designer: Rubush & Hunter
DESCRIPTION:
The Old City Hall is a four story limestone structure. Designed in three distinct layers the City Hall has a larger than life presence in downtown Indianapolis. The base layer of the building features the main entrance, a series of separate entries with neo-classical pediments. The horizontal stonework is then juxtaposed with the engaged two story Doric columns that create the second layer. The roofline features several neo-classical designs that are repeated from the base layer. The unique details and juxtaposition of design gives the City Hall an elegant and timeless appearance.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
Part of the city beautiful movement, Old City Hall was the crowning achievement in Indianapolis’ classicism. When the government offices moved to the City-County Building in 1962 the Indiana State Museum took up long term residence in the Old City Hall a transition that greatly aided the buildings’ long term preservation. Currently the Old City Hall is slated to be the home of a new 21c Museum Hotel, a boutique hotel that offers guests a unique experience.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
National Register of Historic Places, 1974
Style: Classic Revival
Owner (past/present): Past: City of Indianapolis / Present: City of Indianapolis, leased to 21c Museum Hotels
Materials: Indiana limestone
Additions and/or changes with date: Interior renovations (Date unknown) /Exterior renovations currently underway (2015)
Historic use/current use: Historic Use: City Hall / 1962-2002: Indiana State Museum / Present Use: Will become a boutique hotel by 2017
Is building open to the public?: No, under construction
Condition: Excellent
Website and/or sources of information:
History: http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/indianapolis/oldcityhall.htm
Research Sources:
National Park Service. “Old Indianapolis City Hall.” Accessed September 29, 2015.http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/indianapolis/oldcityhall.htm
National Register of Historic Places. Old Indianapolis City Hall, Indianapolis, Marion, Indiana. 1974.
Russell, John. “Big splash, big price tag for old City Hall project.” Indy Star, February 27, 2015. Accessed September 29, 2015.http://www.indystar.com/story/money/2015/02/26/old-city-hall-will-anchor-boutique-hotel-art-gallery/24024579/
