Topeka Performing Arts Center

Long before a municipal building occupied the land between Seventh and Eighth, Quincy and Monroe Street, in Topeka, Kansas, the ground was the site of Colonel George W. Veale's Victorian home, the first in Topeka with electric lights, a furnace and bathrooms. President Grant was honored there at a gala, as were every Governor and United States Senator from Kansas from the time the state was admitted to the Union.

Probably because of all this activity at that site, the people of Topeka wanted that land for its civic buildings. In the late 1800's, the land was acquired, the home leveled, and a two-story brick building (right) was constructed that housed an auditorium, a fire station and city offices. The dedication services continued for three days in September, 1900. Included was a Mendelssohn oratorio and a soloist singing "I'm Living a Ragtime Life." The Auditorium attracted music lovers from great distances.

"To foster the performing arts through excellence in programming by providing for the advancement, promotion, presentation, and development of the arts to meet the diverse cultural and educational needs of our community."

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