Granger Music Hall
Granger Music Hall
Ralph Granger struck it rich in silver in silver mines of Colorado and was making equivalent of $5000 per day of money today. Ralph Granger relocated his family to a estate he had built on 8th street (now called paradise valley road). Ralph Granger was a student of the violin and it led to the purchase of a well known and expensive collection of Hawley violins. This prompted him to hire the famous Architect Irving Gill to design a private music hall next to his home to house these instruments. The hall reflects Gills first attempt at Japanese design with side shingles. Many very famous Musicians performed at the hall including Madam Modjeska and many famous Violinists who wanted to play his violins . A beautiful 75 foot mural on the ceiling portraying the Muse of Music and Erato muse of poetry surrounded by cherubs. The hand carved wooden grill behind the concert stage delights visitors as the sound has perfect acoustics for chamber music. Saved by the community in 1970 the hall was moved to its current location and donated to the National City Historical Society by Ulma Wedgeforth. Mrs. Wedgeforth was married to Ralph Grangers Grandson.