HISTORY

In 2002, the Huntingburg Park Department conducted a survey of community recreational needs in order to identify what aspects might be appropriate for the proposed park along SR 64. A community center was identified as the number one item. Further research  found that a large community center was needed to accommodate functions such as proms and company parties that were currently being held outside of the community.

Due to the expected cost of a facility that was of ample size, the City asked that the Huntingburg Foundation serve as fiscal agent and assist in raising funds for the construction of the facility. The Foundation agreed and assigned it to its Rainmaker Committee under the direction of chairman Mike Uebelhor. A contribution of $500,000 from Bob & Phyllis Menke with a $500,000 match from OFS Brands, Inc. quickly kicked off fund raising efforts.

LOCATION

It was determined that a vacant 11.5-acre lot between US 231 and Chestnut Streets was the best choice. Access to the site could be achieved by extending an already platted 14th Street between US 231 and Chestnut. The City agreed to extend 14th Street and the land was purchased through donations from HFI Board members Fred Souders and Greg Olinger. At the City’s request a lake was added to the site to provide for retention of water that had caused flooding problems in that area of the city.

DESIGN

The Foundation wanted a unique design that celebrated Huntingburg’s history as it built for the community’s future. Because of Huntingburg’s long history with the railroad and its part in the development of the city, it was decided that the majestic old Southern Railway Depot would serve as inspiration for the design.

To satisfy the needs of potential users, the Event Center can seat over 1,000. It has the capability to be divided into five separate rooms to accommodate between 50 to 500 people. Two catering kitchens, storage for the 1,200 chairs and 300 tables in varying sizes and shapes, along with a loading dock and ramp make the 24,000 square foot facility capable of providing for current and future needs of our residents and corporations.

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