The 5,000-seat auditorium, which closed in 1972, was constructed in 1927 to honor Gary residents killed during World War I. There had been discussions about transforming the building into a performing arts center, museum or sports hall, but it never happened.

The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the historic district downtown, but it was removed in 2013 because of the building’s poor condition.

Brad Miller, director at the Indiana Landmarks Northwest field office, said that crews salvaged architectural details to incorporate in the new building or display at a prominent location.

“It’s certainly a loss for those of us who advocate for the preservation of significant buildings in Gary and for those who hold a close memory inside the doors of the Memorial Auditorium,” Miller said.