Cottage Grove Historical Society
In 1931 the citizens of Cottage Grove had a vision of a building that would become a part of the community both physically and socially. Constructing and paying for the Armory in the heart of the Great Depression was a great sacrifice and it reflected the hope of better times ahead.
For 80 years the Cottage Grove Armory has fulfilled the physical portion of the vision by its physical presence. The 80 year old art deco building stands out. It is different in size and design from everything in the community. Its noble appearance seems to inspire awe and respect. The broad stairs spilling out onto the street corner welcome people to enter. As one of the largest buildings in the downtown it can be seen for blocks and serves as a monument to the skills of local craftsmen that built the Armory. As a physical monument it also demonstrates the community's resolve to weather tough times and come out on top. For decades, people of all ages would go to the building daily whether it was for Kindergarten classes, Cub Scouts, Roller Skating, basketball games, service club meetings, dances or concerts. It served as the physical hub of the community. This place matters because it was the physical gathering place for a growing community.
As a gathering place the Cottage Grove Armory impacted the social life of the community. Neighbors could spend time with each other often in a relaxed fun environment. The Armory strengthened the community and developed a sense of place and pride. The dances, rollerskating and club meetings put the Armory into the daily lives of the citizens. The Armory was a center for educational, recreational and service opportunities. It made the downtown feel like home. It was where members of the community had fun and also met to solve problems. The Armory provided a location where service to others was expected. Boys and eventually young women would enter the Armory and through service in the Guard would be turned into men or women of responsibility and integrity. They learned to drop their personal cares and give service to others whether fighting forest fires threatening another community, aiding residents of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina or responding to the rigors of combat around the world. Most returned home and they knew they were home when they saw the Armory. This place matters because it impacted the lives of people.
Throughout the community young and old have come together to pursue the renovation of the Cottage Grove Armory so current and future generations can have similar experiences. Through partnerships with the Cottage Grove Historical Society, City of Cottage Grove, Boys and Girls Club and other groups it is exciting to see the same vision and foresight of the citizens from 1931 being rejuvenated and strengthened. This place matters because preserving and restoring the Cottage Grove Armory is really about preserving who we are as a community.
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