West Bend
Marie & Orville Stratocha Bandstand
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The Strachota Bandshell is located in Regner Park. It was originally named City Park, and was constructed starting in about 1933 with funds from Civil Works Administration (CWA), project No. 12, for which the city received $40,000. Because most of the planning had been done, over half of the funds went to labor cost. In 1934, the work continued with Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) funds. The Park was dedicated on July 4, 1935. It is surmised by West Bend Parks Department that the bandstand design was by Robert L. Boerner, Boerner and Boerner, Milwaukee, who designed the park. Henry O. Regner was Mayor of West Bend from 1926 to 1930. The park land was purchased during this time and later named Regner Park to honor him.
Until 2010, it was known merely as "the Bandstand". It was updated in 2009-2010 with new electrical, a new roof, concrete replacement and lannon stone repair. The $150,00 funding needed came from the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs with the majority of funds donated by the Strachota family, for which it was renamed the Marie & Orville Strachota Bandstand. A grand opening/dedication occurred in June 2010.
When first built, it was used for band concerts. In 1935, bands were more simple and music flowed out from all sides of the bandstand. Bands over time grew and people wanted to see more of those who had performances. The Silver Lining Stage was built to better showcase the bands and other theatrical performances.
Recent use of the bandstand include weddings, family gatherings such as birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries. It is a popular spot for photographers. Every December, Regner Park celebrates the winter holidays with Enchantment in the Park. The entire park is lit with many displays throughout it.
Until 2010, it was known merely as "the Bandstand". It was updated in 2009-2010 with new electrical, a new roof, concrete replacement and lannon stone repair. The $150,00 funding needed came from the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs with the majority of funds donated by the Strachota family, for which it was renamed the Marie & Orville Strachota Bandstand. A grand opening/dedication occurred in June 2010.
When first built, it was used for band concerts. In 1935, bands were more simple and music flowed out from all sides of the bandstand. Bands over time grew and people wanted to see more of those who had performances. The Silver Lining Stage was built to better showcase the bands and other theatrical performances.
Recent use of the bandstand include weddings, family gatherings such as birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries. It is a popular spot for photographers. Every December, Regner Park celebrates the winter holidays with Enchantment in the Park. The entire park is lit with many displays throughout it.
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