Memorial Hall

Memorial Hall is a veterans museum in downtown Rockford featuring Greek revival architecture with Indiana Bedford limestone facades. The building displays identical columns, double doors, and a red tile roof punctuated by a central skylight.

The building was constructed in 1902 and President Theodore Roosevelt attended its dedication ceremony in 1903. It was originally devoted to honoring veterans from the Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.

The main floor and basement hold exhibits about Winnebago County military history, with bronze plaques honoring local servicemen from different conflicts. These displays show how the community remembers its soldiers across various periods of American warfare.

The museum collection extends well beyond Civil War artifacts to include displays from multiple global conflicts spanning different eras. Visitors will find educational resources about veterans throughout various historical periods.

The building received designation as an Illinois Historical Landmark in 1974 and was added to the National Register in 1976. This recognition reflects its long-standing importance to local and state history.

Location: Rockford

Website: http://veteransmemorialhall.com

GPS coordinates: 42.27250,-89.09306

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:44