Historic Kemper Center

A Journey Through Time
Historical Anderson Arts Center Black and White

Anderson Arts Center

Once the home of industrialist James Anderson, this French Renaissance Revival mansion became the Anderson Arts Center in 1990. It showcases diverse artworks and supports local and regional artists through exhibitions and educational programs.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Galleries featuring local and regional artists
– Art education and community programs
– Historical mansion set on picturesque grounds

Ambrose Hall

Originally St. Mary’s Convent, Ambrose Hall served as the living and working space for the Sisters of St. Mary from 1911 until 1974. It now functions as Kemper Center’s administrative hub, offering spaces for meetings and events while preserving its historical essence.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Administrative offices and rental spaces
– Historic convent features restored for modern use
– Venue for receptions and events

Historical Ambrose Hall at the Kemper Center Black and White
The Historical Durkee Mansion at the Kemper Center Black and White

Durkee Mansion

Built by Charles Durkee in the mid-19th century, this Italianate Victorian mansion showcases the opulent lifestyle of its era and serves as a museum for Victorian home life.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Public tours and educational programs
– Venue for cultural and community events
– Preserved historical landmark

Founders Hall

Added in 1871, Founders Hall expanded Kemper Hall’s facilities to accommodate a growing student body and now serves as a versatile venue for various events.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Business meetings, parties, and receptions
– Historic dining room preserved for modern use
– Accessible and equipped for diverse functions

Founders Hall at Kemper Center
The Historical Gilbert Simmons Gymnasium at the Kemper Center Black and White

Gilbert Simmons Gymnasium

Constructed in 1901, the gymnasium was a gift from Zalmon G. Simmons, replacing the older Armitage Hall. It now hosts a range of activities from sports to theatrical productions.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Event space for receptions and community gatherings
– Historic sports and recreation building
– Lakefront studios for artists

Griffin Observatory

Built in 1893 and modernized in 2011, Griffin Observatory offers educational opportunities in astronomy, supported by Carthage College and community partnerships.

NOW IN USE AS:

– New usage plans are currently under development

Beautiful Observatory located at the Historical Kemper Center in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Historical Photo of artist creating tiled mural wall at the Kemper Center grounds in Kenosha, Wisconsin

Kady B. Faulkner Building

Originally a bakery for altar bread, this building now commemorates the artistic contributions of Kady B. Faulkner through a distinctive outdoor mural.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Artistic and historical site
– Features unique mural representing local heritage
– Supports art education and community projects

Kemper Chapel

Constructed in 1875, Kemper Chapel has transitioned from a religious site to a venue for weddings and recitals, maintaining its historical and architectural significance.

NOW IN USE AS:

– Weddings and cultural events
– Historic chapel with original art and furnishings
– De-sanctified but preserved for community use

Beautiful Historic Kemper Chapel at the the Kemper Center in Kenosha, Wisconsin