Since 1976, many hundreds of community members have been helping to preserve the history and art of the Kemper Center for future generations. The original buildings were once the home of Wisconsin’s first United States Senator, Charles Durkee, and a school for girls, run by the Sisters of St. Mary, called Kemper Hall.

For over 40 years, so many have helped to build the Kemper Center into a thriving historical landmark in Kenosha. And it continues to evolve with the help of dedicated volunteers, staff, guests, and supporters. In 1990, the Anderson Arts Center building was officially added to the Kemper Center grounds.

Located on 17.5 acres along the Lake Michigan shoreline in a beautiful Kenosha County park, and listed on the national register of historic places, the Kemper Center’s buildings, programs, classes, and events aim to preserve the historic nature of the site, promote an understanding of local history, increase awareness of the arts, and contribute to cultural activities and education in the community.