2 August 2002

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum Construction

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum

In 1944 the Fort Wayne Junior Chamber of Commerce proposed creating an event hall to honor Allen County war heroes. This space, they maintained, would fill a pressing need to give the city a large event venue, unavailable at the time in Fort Wayne. After passing a county-wide referendum, the Memorial Coliseum began construction in 1950, despite the $3 million price tag.

Since its completion in 1952, the Memorial Coliseum has boasted a long history of hosting a variety of events including circuses, political rallies, trade shows, school ceremonies and numerous sporting events. During the 1980s, the building saw even more growth with the addition of the Expo Center, allowing an even further range of events to be held within its halls. Another renovation came in 2002, increasing the height of the ceiling by 41 feet, 10 inches, the largest project of its kind, providing space for more seats and additional services for disabled visitors.

As an iconic fixture of the Fort Wayne community, the War Memorial Coliseum serves as the stage upon which history is made. This piece of cable was used to raise the roof of the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum on 2 August 2002. Approximately 6,720 feet of cable was used. The aerial view seen here was taken shortly after the Coliseum was completed in 1952.