Built in 1893 by the local chapter of the Grand Army of the Republic, (the G.A.R.), this 364-seat building is a living memorial to the county's Civil War Veterans. The G.A.R. wanted to build a memorial that would be useful for the entire local community.

The building is currently owned and operated by Porter County. However, the presence of the G.A.R., the visionaries and original owners of the building is evident even today: beautiful red, white and blue stained glass windows are seen throughout the building and there is a plaque over the entrance honoring "The Soldiers and Sailors of 1861-5."

Throughout the years, The Opera House has been a venue for theatrical events, including both musical and drama. It was also used for concerts, public meetings, weddings, funerals, presentations, school plays and graduations