A Tour of Historic Elkhart and its Magnificent Lerner Theatre

Join us on Wednesday, November 19 at 7pm via Zoom for the next installment of the Indianapolis Propylaeum’s free Historic Preservation Series highlighting a brief history of the City of Elkhart and featuring an in-depth review of its iconic Lerner Theatre. From construction a century ago, through its subsequent struggles, and its recent rebirth, a brave group of investors and visionaries collaborated to restore the theatre, allowing it to continue to serve as the community’s cultural and entertainment center. Built in 1924 as a theatrical palace seating 2,000 patrons, the Lerner Theatre features Beaux-Arts architecture. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. 

Our presentation is brought to you by the knowledgeable duo of architect Dan Cripe and preservationist Tim Shelly.  

Dan Cripe, AIA, is an Elkhart architect and principal at Cripe Design, LLC.  In addition to his residential architectural design work, for four decades, Dan has provided critical service to Elkhart, assisting in saving the City’s historic architecture and fabric.  A decade and a half ago, Dan led the design and construction of the new portion of the Lerner Theatre’s restoration.

Tim Shelly is a long-time Elkhart attorney, who previously served as chairman of Indiana Landmarks’ board of directors.  When not volunteering for downtown promotional events, Tim along with his wife, Meg, spend their free time restoring their historic home, the C. G. Conn Mansion.