Norristown's Historic Bandshell, Destroyed By Fire, Is Returning

NORRISTOWN, PA — Work to rebuild the Fire Chief's Memorial Bandshell in Norristown is well underway, and officials are hopeful the new structure will be ready for the summer festival season.

The bandshell was largely destroyed by fire during an arson last year. Municipal officials and concerned citizens vowed to rebuild the historic piece of Norristown community and culture.

And they have. Ahead of schedule, it seems.

The bandshell may even be ready to host the upcoming Summer Concert Series event on June 29.

The bandshell, which had stood for more than a century in Elmwood Park, was burned down during a fire on Aug. 28, 2024.

After a lengthy investigation, authorities said that the fire was intentionally set at nearby porta-potties before hopping over to the roof of the bandshell. The fire grew to a two alarm blaze before it could be extinguished.

The structure was immediately condemned and was fenced off until March, when municipal council awarded a contract to rebuild it.

In the aftermath, officials said they received an upwelling of support from the community and from individuals eager to donate.