Grays Armory
Encyclopedia
Grays Armory is a historical building in Cleveland, Ohio
and was founded in 1837 as a city militia. They were well-trained, drilled, and disciplined. This is also one of the oldest remaining buildings in downtown Cleveland.
. The main portion of the building is four stories high, and the most notable feature is the five-story tower on the northeast corner of the building. The tower has '3 x 5' foundation blocks, the main entrance corners and the front window lintels are all of solid rough-hewn sandstone. The main entry arch rests on top of polished granite columns that rise from each cornerstone. Positioned above is a black iron drop-gate, and a gothic barrier between the front steps and the colossal oak doors. There were also pointed iron rods bolted to the scarlet brick walls that make up the window protectors on the first floor. The effect is a splendid mix of color and texture in materials. The overall design effectively conveys that this is an urban fortress.
and its future amendments would eventually spell the end of the old militia companies like the Cleveland Grays. Even if the independent volunteer company was becoming a thing of the past, the Grays were determined to support the military as private citizens by organizing a "Businessmen's Camp" The intent was to indoctrinate professional men in the essentials of military leadership.
, the museum presents a cultural and educational program honoring those who serve past years programs that have included patriotic orchestra concerts and special touring exhibits. You also can rent the Grays Armory for special events such as private parties, weddings, receptions, and even prom
s. So this building is still active in the city of Cleveland.
Ohio
Ohio is a Midwestern state in the United States. The 34th largest state by area in the U.S.,it is the 7th‑most populous with over 11.5 million residents, containing several major American cities and seven metropolitan areas with populations of 500,000 or more.The state's capital is Columbus...
and was founded in 1837 as a city militia. They were well-trained, drilled, and disciplined. This is also one of the oldest remaining buildings in downtown Cleveland.
History
The Grays Armory building predates the Civil War. Apart from protecting the city during riots or civil disturbances, the Cleveland Grays Armory has been long known for hosting the city's premiere social events. Grays Armory has been witness to a long tradition of patriotism and public service. Cleveland sent them proudly to fight in every major American conflict from the civil war through World War I]. Grays Armory earned repute as an exclusive venue right from the beginning during the celebrations for Cleveland's Centennial (1896). The Grays Armory events went way beyond the customary military balls and band concerts typical during that era. This building was originally built to house weapons and provides a drill hall for the militia; this edifice quickly evolved into a vital community center for the turn-of-the century Clevelanders.Architectural landmark
The Grays Militia was organized in 1837 as the City Guard unit, and it evolved through the years. The location of the first Grays Armory was reported to be on Center Street. Before Cleveland built the City Armory on Long Street, Gray's Armory occupied a vacant fire department engine house on Frankfort Street near West 6th Street] where it still stands. When a fire broke out in the City Armory on December 8, 1892. The Grays resolved to execute the much-planned construction of their own armory.After the fire
On May 30, 1893. a three-ton Berea sandstone foundation block was put in place by Colonel John FrazeeJohn Frazee
John Frazee is an artist from New York City, New York. Frazee's work as a painter and sculptor is displayed around the world. He is also known for a science humor story he wrote in OMNI magazine, the Buttered cat paradox.-Education and career:...
. The main portion of the building is four stories high, and the most notable feature is the five-story tower on the northeast corner of the building. The tower has '3 x 5' foundation blocks, the main entrance corners and the front window lintels are all of solid rough-hewn sandstone. The main entry arch rests on top of polished granite columns that rise from each cornerstone. Positioned above is a black iron drop-gate, and a gothic barrier between the front steps and the colossal oak doors. There were also pointed iron rods bolted to the scarlet brick walls that make up the window protectors on the first floor. The effect is a splendid mix of color and texture in materials. The overall design effectively conveys that this is an urban fortress.
Civil War
In the mid nineteenth century the Civil War had a lot to do with the Grays Armory. In Cleveland, the unit was called the Cleveland Grays, named after their gray uniforms. They were the first Cleveland group to leave to fight in the Civil War, they fought at Manassas and at Philippi.Cleveland Grays militia
The Grays Armory, across the large cities of the young nation, leading citizens, and also schooling themselves in the arts of war and volunteered their personal fortunes to provide weapons, uniforms, and rations. Private citizens undertook these measures to defend their republic. The Militia Act of 1903Militia Act of 1903
The National Guard Bureau is the federal instrument responsible for the administration of the National Guard of the United States established by the United States Congress as a joint bureau of the Department of the Army and the Department of the Air Force. It was created by the Militia Act of 1903...
and its future amendments would eventually spell the end of the old militia companies like the Cleveland Grays. Even if the independent volunteer company was becoming a thing of the past, the Grays were determined to support the military as private citizens by organizing a "Businessmen's Camp" The intent was to indoctrinate professional men in the essentials of military leadership.
The Cleveland Grays Armory Museum
The Grays Armory Museum seeks to share its historical and cultural legacy with the public. Beyond stewardship of the building and conservation of artifacts, the museum strives to preserve the traditions and the rich heritage of those who serve their country and their community. The museum actively fulfills this objective by preserving, interpreting and presenting the military history of the United States. The museum regularly reaches out to Greater Cleveland by sponsoring open-house events intended to reach diverse audiences. Each Veterans DayVeterans Day
Veterans Day, formerly Armistice Day, is an annual United States holiday honoring military veterans. It is a federal holiday that is observed on November 11. It coincides with other holidays such as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day, which are celebrated in other parts of the world and also mark...
, the museum presents a cultural and educational program honoring those who serve past years programs that have included patriotic orchestra concerts and special touring exhibits. You also can rent the Grays Armory for special events such as private parties, weddings, receptions, and even prom
Prom
In the United States and Canada, a prom, short for promenade, is a formal dance, or gathering of high school students. It is typically held near the end of the senior year. It figures greatly in popular culture and is a major event among high school students...
s. So this building is still active in the city of Cleveland.