Hinsdale 150: Memorial Building
Historic Plaza and Roof Railing Campaign




The Memorial Building was built to honor Hinsdale residents who served in the wars, a tribute particularly to those who went out from the Village and did not return.  Mr. Philip R. Clarke, Chairman of the Hinsdale Memorial Building Committee appreciated that the project must be community-wide in order to truly express the gratitude and civic pride of the Village.  It was unanimously agreed that the memorial should take the form of a functional building.  To erect a building to serve, and honor those who served, impressed the Committee as an utmost tribute to the memory of their heroes.  In April 1927, the plans of architect Edwin H. Clark for the new Hinsdale Memorial Building at 19 E. Chicago Avenue were accepted at a Village meeting, and a drive began to raise the $150,000 needed to pay for the project.  Ninety percent of the funds needed were raised by the end of the first week.

Hinsdale's 150 Memorial Building Historic Plaza and Roof Railing Campaign has been announced.  Five donation levels are available to help renew the Memorial Building plaza and restore the original Chippendale roof railing.  Residents can donate now to be a part of a lasting tribute to upgrade and enhance these cherished landmarks by visiting www.villageofhinsdale.org/150.

"To commemorate Hinsdale's 150th anniversary and in honor of our service members, we are asking the community to come together to help renew the Memorial Building Plaza, which has served as Hinsdale's natural front yard for nearly 100 years, and to restore the building's roof railing, which was removed due to deterioration a number of years ago.  This community-driven campaign will allow the Village to renovate the building's plaza to create a community gathering spot, as well as restore its historic roof railing.  Additionally, this endeavor will further the legacy of the Memorial Building, which was originally funded by Hinsdaleans seeking to honor those who made the greatest sacrifice for our nation," said Tom Cauley, Village President.