The Music Pavilion / Gazebo

In July 1891, a group of men formed a committee to build a music stand or pavilion for the community, intended for open-air concerts by musical organizations, public meetings, and religious services on the sabbath. The original design was drawn by local architect W.E. Douden, and construction was funded by public subscription with support from the Herald and Sentinel, which urged citizens to contribute. By August 18, 1891, the project was completed, and dedication exercises were held on August 29, 1891, featuring a musical program of chorus, orchestra, drum corps, and local bands. J.B. Seal, editor of the Millersburg Herald, presented the debt-free music pavilion to W.L. Brubaker, who accepted it on behalf of the borough concil. When completed, the octagonally shaped pavilion measured sixteen feet across and approximately twelve feet high, and its total cost in 1891 was $164.52. In September 1891, benches were taken from the school and placed in the pavilion; many years later they were removed and sold, and three of them are now in the Municipal Building. Over the years, changes were made to the pavilion, including its bannister design and roof line. It was damaged several times, including in July 1969 when a storm caused a tree to fall on the front section, and although it was always repaired after damage, it had to be rebuilt in 1998. The rebuilding cost $27,758 and restored the original bannister design and roof line through contributions and a state grant. Today it is more commonly known as the Gazebo and serves as the center of many community activities.

Millersburg, Pennsylvania · United States