The Crump Theatre is Indiana’s oldest known theater still in operation dating back to 1889.

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CHALLENGE

In 2025, the Crump Center for the Performing Arts, a non-profit organization, was formed and is leading the transformation of the Crump to its fully operational state. Like many theaters, the building fell into disuse and disrepair, and was even threatened with demolition. In 2019, a volunteer effort called the Crump Project began the process of cleaning up the mothballed historic theater. Today, project “Encore” will fully revitalize the 750-seat community asset.

SUCCESS

New History worked with the design team to provide design guidance to retain and restore the historic character of the building. The historic character preserves community memories while opening doors to potential funding sources, like historic tax credits and grants.