Griffins keeping watch

The Superior Auditorium has been at the heart of the Superior community since city voters approved issuing bonds for its construction in July, 1935. Griffins are legendary creatures with the body, tail and back legs of a lion, the head and wings of an eagle and sometimes, the talons of eagles on the front feet.

Bids for construction were let in April, 1936. The first event was held at the auditorium on January 29, 1936. The city officially accepted the building from the contractors on Feb. 21, 1937.

Now what do griffins have to do withe the auditorium? The building is actually home to two griffins who have resided there since the building was completed. And where do said creatures reside you may ask? It takes an eagle eyed visitor to spot the griffins. They are perched more than 20 feet above the floor of the auditorium, on either side of the stage. The plaques they are mounted on are of a classical style. One needs eagle vision to make out the griffins on the plaques but with the aid of telephoto lens or binoculars you can make them out.

What is the significance of the griffin? As they are powerful creatures, they were known for guarding priceless possessions and treasures. And what is more priceless and treasured than the community the griffins guard?

It is not known who ordered the plaques to be incorporated into the building interior but they have been there since day one.

In November of 1927 the city approved the purchase of curtains for the stage, scenery and back drops and they may have been part of the order. Or the architect may have placed them in the original building plans. Just another mystery that will likely go unsolved. The auditorium was officially dedicated on Dec. 28, 1937. For many years it was the center of the community. Dances, boxing matches, concerts, home shows, high school graduations and large banquets were held within its confines.

The building fell on hard times when a new city hall was constructed. Maintenance was neglected for many years and time began to take its toll. The interior ceiling tiles bore the scars of too many basketballs hitting them. A grand piano slowly deteriorated from neglect as the building underwent dramatic temperature changes. The roof leaked. Asbestos lurked in the lower levels.

A dedicated group of community members banded together to save the building. It was hoped the City of Superior would come to the rescue. It didn't. A referendum was held and funds were set aside to renovate the auditorium. The effort languished. The city seriously considered having the building demolished despite the high cost of doing so.

A non-profit group was formed and took the building from the city. It has been a long, arduous project but the auditorium is returning to its former glory. The roof was secured and sealed several years ago. Extensive electrical work was undertaken. The catering kitchen is new. The exterior brick is being repointed. The floor is scheduled to be refinished in the near future. The heating and air conditioning systems were completely revamped. The work has been accomplished through the dedication of the community volunteers who donate time and funds to make the rehabilitation complete. Their perseverance has left the building in fine shape for future generations.

All the while, the griffins were protecting the building until new caretakers arrived.

The griffin goes back to more than 3,000 years to Egyptian art. The griffin was memorialized in Egypt and the Persian empire. The griifin is a prominent figure in heraldry in England, where they never have their wings closed. It was featured on the coat of arms of the Republic of Genoa in Italy.

Griffins have a long history in architecture. The griffin adorns buildings both sacred and secular.

Whoever opted for the Superior griffins made a good choice. They protected their charge, which is now flourishing once again.

A griffin is also the mascot of Diller-Odell High School. Some seasons they are well protected, others not so much. There is only so much a griffin can do.

On your next visit to the auditorium, lift your eyes and try to discern the griffins. It's not easy but it is worthwhile.