Kenney Gym, Historic gymnasium at University of Illinois, Urbana, United States
Kenney Gym is a connected complex at the University of Illinois consisting of a Renaissance Revival building from 1902 and an earlier annex built in 1890. The facility functions as a multipurpose arena that accommodates university athletic events and serves the University Laboratory High School with seating for about 5,000 people.
The facility began as Military Drill Hall and Men's Gymnasium before becoming known as Kenney Gym through its long history of use. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 in recognition of its historical importance to the university and community.
The gymnasium hosted the Illinois High School Association basketball tournament state finals from 1919 to 1925, shaping local sports traditions.
The location is easily accessible within the university campus and accommodates various athletic competitions and school activities throughout the year. Keep in mind that access may be restricted during events or academic schedules, so checking ahead is helpful for your visit.
The 1890 annex was designed by Nathan Clifford Ricker with an open column-free interior specifically for military drilling before being repurposed as a gymnasium. This original design choice created an unusually flexible interior space that continues to serve the facility well.
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