Historical Designation
The entirety of The Venue CU buildings will be listed in the National Historic Landmark Registry and the National Register for Historical Places. In short, our buildings are old, awesome, and important to the rich history of Champaign-Urbana. Although it is often thought that Historical Designations handcuff owners as to the use and renovation of buildings, quite the opposite is true. Our Historical Designation has allowed for the input of historians throughout the local, state, and federal level to come together and advise us as to the historical relevance of our buildings. The wisdom gained from this collaboration gave us the ability to create historically accurate renovations, while advising us on the best way to incorporate the modern elements The Venue CU embraces.
Varsity Theater
The Varsity Theater opened in 1906 as the first nickelodeon in the area. The Varsity eventually began showing films with sound in the late 1920’s. A large remodel took place in 1943 with leather seating, modern projection equipment, and A/C being the most notable upgrades. At the time of the remodel, the theater was renamed the Rex Theater. Ultimately, the name was changed to the Illini Theater for the majority of the next 35 years, operating as a motion picture theater. The original tin ceiling from 1906 hangs in our venue today, along with a few other original features. Be sure to look up and view the ornate design that our gloss white finish helps to display.
Vriner’s Confectionery
Vriner’s opened at 55 East Main Street in 1898 and quickly became the most popular confectionery in the area. Each of the ornate tile floor designs was laid by hand by the founder Peter Vriner. The original tiles can be viewed in the entryway to the building. In the 1930’s, stained glass and a soapstone soda fountain backdrop were erected during a major renovation. This can still be viewed behind our bar. So much history accompanies this wonderful space, and we look forward to enhancing the legacy of a building that has meant so much to so many in the Champaign-Urbana community.
Photos Provided By - Champaign County Historical Archives, The Urbana Free Library, Urbana, IL
