Willow Springs Residents Shocked At Loss Of Historic Ballroom
(CBS) -- Dozens said goodbye to an iconic landmark in the southwest suburbs, after a massive fire destroyed it.
CBS 2's Sandra Torres reports on how the Willowbrook Ballroom made an impact for generations.
It's a tragic loss that's bringing an entire community together.
"The nation has lost a true landmark. It definitely was the jewel of this village," Willow Springs Mayor Alan Nowaczyk said Saturday.
The building had been a staple since the 1920s.
"I came after my prom. I came when they'd have the sundaes and sodas and stuff like that for the young people," said Arlene Dunatov, who had her 50th wedding anniversary party at the banquet hall.
"It's like losing a member of our family," she says.
A few mementos survived the fire, but the entire 30,000-square-foot structure is gone. The fire began in the roof on Friday and spread quickly.
Now all that's left are the memories.
"My grandparents came here for 50 years. Every week they'd go to Willowbrook Ballroom for their dancing," says Kyle Rimkus.
The owners of the ballroom asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Nearby banquet halls are helping the staff accommodate several weddings and events that were scheduled at the ballroom, including one Saturday.