The Fighting Illini Battalion will host a celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Armory building on Friday. Constructed in 1914, the main arch structure of the building was a groundbreaking feat in architecture at that time. The original building remains relatively unchanged, aside from the addition of the outside red-brick facade, which was completed in 1926.

Since its completion, the Armory has been home to the Fighting Illini Battalion, who is hosting the event with the support of the Military Education Council and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. The building was originally constructed for military training and many soldiers returned to the Armory after WWI. Training and deployment for WWII also took place in the building.

Today, the Armory holds classrooms and offices for 19 University departments, and a vast majority of students have had class in the building. Additionally, this multi-use building houses an indoor track and is used for a variety of events including, summer camps and a remote control helicopter show once a year.

Event coordinators are expecting 200-300 guests at the event, which is open to the public. Attendees can look forward to hearing from the keynote speaker, a professor in military science, a performance from a section of the University band, and luncheon afterwards.

The event will take place at the Armory from 12-3 pm. Tickets can be purchased for $19 online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/armory-building-100-year-celebration-tickets-12974233281. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are first come, first serve. If you have any questions about the event contact the Fighting Illini Battalion at 217-244-1407 or [email protected].