the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, the Kasschau Memorial Shell in Ridgewood is a beloved landmark, renowned for hosting a variety of concerts and performances throughout the summer, many of which are free to the public.
A Tribute to Frank and Howard Kasschau
Constructed in 1958 at Veterans Field, the shell serves as a memorial to Frank and Howard Kasschau, prominent Ridgewood residents with deep musical ties to the village. According to “The History of a Village,” Frank Kasschau was the leader of the Orpheus Club, a men’s chorus, and was later succeeded by his son Howard in April 1943.
“The Orpheus Club, the oldest of Ridgewood’s musical organizations still in existence, had been founded by half a dozen businessmen and former members of male choruses in 1909,” the book notes. “Under the leadership and training of Mr. (Frank) Kasschau, the club’s growth and progress were strikingly dramatic.” Frank Kasschau passed away in 1944, just a year after his son took over leadership of the Orpheus Club.
Formation of the Memorial Committee
In 1946, the Frank Kasschau Memorial Committee of the Ridgewood Choral was established to propose a fitting tribute to honor the late director. Initially, the committee planned to build a memorial auditorium. However, they eventually decided to raise funds for a memorial shell instead. Fundraising efforts were bolstered through a series of concerts, with proceeds earmarked for the shell’s construction.
“In 1947, Helen Jepson, soprano of the Metropolitan Opera Association, appeared, contributing her talent because of her friendship with Mr. Kasschau,” the text recounts. “In succeeding years, many other well-known artists performed for the benefit of the memorial.”
The First Pop Concert and Fundraising Success
In 1949, the first Pop Concert was presented outdoors to an audience of 2,500 people. Its enthusiastic reception ensured its annual recurrence each June. The funds raised from these concerts were instrumental in the construction of the shell, which was ultimately gifted to the village by the Ridgewood Choral.
Architectural Significance
According to “The History of a Village,” the concrete, steel, and stucco structure was designed by Wallace Dunlop, a local resident and architect. With a proscenium arch measuring 50 feet wide by 23 feet high and a deep, curved apron, the Kasschau Memorial Shell boasts one of the largest stages and finest facilities in Northern New Jersey.
Dedication and Growth
The shell was dedicated on June 17, 1958, with a concert by the Ridgewood Choral and Orpheus Club, marking the beginning of its role as a cultural hub. Over the years, the number and scope of programs held at the Kasschau Memorial Shell have steadily grown, making it a central venue for summer entertainment in Ridgewood.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, attending a concert at the Kasschau Memorial Shell offers a unique opportunity to enjoy live music in a historic and picturesque setting, under the stars..