Columbus Hall

Columbus Hall is a school building and theatre in Orange featuring a wide entrance flanked by matching stone staircases and an ornate front facade. The main structure showcases large cut stone arches and is constructed with buff-colored brick accented with terra cotta decorative elements throughout.

The building was completed in 1894 and designed by architect Jeremiah O'Rourke. Its construction marked a significant cultural moment at the end of the 19th century.

The building's name commemorates Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas, reflecting the architectural vision of its era. This naming choice continues to shape how the place is understood locally today.

The theatre area on the upper floors features a wide stage and balcony seating with clear sightlines from all seats without obstruction. The interior spaces are designed to accommodate a large audience comfortably throughout the venue.

A large gilded statue once stood atop the dome and was visible from far away when illuminated at night, until a windstorm damaged it in 2012. This figure was one of the most striking features visible from a distance and defined the roofline for over a century.

Location: Orange

Inception: 1894

GPS coordinates: 40.77667,-74.23250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:05