Development of bandshells in park and open spaces became an important element of American life during the earliest twentieth century. In those years, nearly every small town had a bandshell in which its community band played. Today, it is estimated that just over 30 communities in Minnesota still have a community or city band. Though the terms “bandshell” and “bandstand” were used interchangeably, a true band shell has a back for better acoustics while a bandstand is open on all sides.

Liberty Park, established in 1917, is the oldest park in Marshall. The park is known for its mature trees, the Redwood River running through its center, and is also the site of Marshall’s first official designated bandshell.

Prior to the current bandshell, in the 1920s, Marshall’s municipal band played downtown. But due to increasing traffic, the band was forced to play on top of the Legion Field pool bathhouse. The municipal band, who had been performing since the 1880s, also played at the site of the former Marshall Middle/High School with a stage facing 5th Street prior to the construction of the existing bandshell.

In addition to the city’s municipal band, in the late 1990s Marshall furthered use of the bandshell with the organization of two community art organizations: the Marshall Area Stage Company and Marshall Fine Arts Council. Both organizations utilizing the bandshell for performances throughout the summer.

In 1951 the municipal band raised money to begin construction of a band shell at Liberty Park that would provide for a permanent location for the band. At a cost of $3,500, construction began in May and was dedicated June 28 in that same year. Not until 1987 did the city conduct a repair of the structure. The city spent $15,000 to repair the cracked plaster and stucco, while also re-sealing the exterior. It was deemed a “major facelift” by city officials at the time.

Now, after seven decades, the bandshell is in poor condition. The design does not meet American with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and per a 2021 engineering report, the bandshell’s exterior and foundation have been compromised, making it impossible to renovate the facility. The wood supports in the foundation and the concrete facade are cracking and splitting, making them structurally unsound.

The city of Marshall maintains Liberty Park as part of their city budget, however large infrastructure projects, like replacement of the bandshell, means we need to leverage assistance from other sources of revenue for the project to see funding in the near future.

This year, with the help of state Sen. Gary Dahms, R-Redwood Falls, and state Rep. Chris Swedzinski, R-Ghent, the city is requesting funds from the state’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund receives a portion of the state’s sales tax revenue resulting from the Legacy amendment to support arts, arts education and arts access, and to preserve Minnesota’s history and cultural heritage. 

If funding is provided, immediate benefits include the replacement of a deteriorating bandshell with a safe and accessible facility. This enhancement will help preserve and increase the usage and enjoyment of the park, as residents attend performances and events in the newly renovated space.

Long-term planning for park facilities is also supported by the recently completed Comprehensive Plan in 2022. The Comprehensive Plan is designed to guide city officials and staff in decision making and spending efforts. The project directly supports one of the plan’s key themes of “maintaining and expanding the park system that includes year-round activities”.

Redevelopment of the bandshell and improving its accessibility aligns with the City’s previous investments in permanent restrooms and trails, ensuring the park remains a hub for high-quality and safe outdoor experiences. Redeveloping these high-demand facilities will promote outdoor activities and help more people experience the benefits of spending time in the park

The bandshell is an important focal point of Marshall’s oldest park. Investing in this iconic facility will ensure safe, high-quality park experiences for current and future users. A redeveloped bandshell will carry on the tradition of providing public performances in an outdoor space and attract residents and visitors who enjoy summer concerts, plays, and community events for years to come.

— Sharon Hanson is city administrator for the city of Marshall