The Copper Lantern Opened in Rockford

Owners Shawn and Libbey Cox have transformed the former Lithuanian Club into a new local event space.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Openings & Closings

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Shawn and Libbey Cox have opened The Copper Lantern, a new event venue located at 716 Indiana Ave. in Rockford. The project aims to preserve the site's history while providing a versatile space for local gatherings.

Why it matters

The venue serves as a repurposed community landmark that provides a new capacity-controlled space for area events. By rehabilitating the former club, the owners have aimed to balance historical preservation with modern functional needs.

The venue accommodates 205 people with tables or 400 people in an open-floor layout. Allen Cox purchased the property for $150,000 on February 10, 2026.

The players

Shawn and Libbey Cox

They are the owners and operators of The Copper Lantern who led the property renovations.

Allen Cox

He is the individual who completed the purchase of the former club building in early 2026.

The details

Renovations were primarily performed by the owners and included site work, parking lot recoating, and the addition of 20 shade trees and 75 bushes. The facility features a redesigned bar room complete with an electric fireplace.

The original building was constructed in 1953.
The Rockford Lithuanian Club ceased operations in October 2025.
Allen Cox purchased the property on February 10, 2026.
A grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for October 15, 2026.

Market Landscape

The transition of the site from the former Lithuanian Club reflects a trend of repurposing mid-century institutional buildings into modern commercial assets. This shift allows the property to remain a functional part of the local landscape while adapting to current market demands for event space.

Residents and event planners gain a new venue option that provides a flexible layout for both small seated dinners and large open-floor gatherings. The renovated facility offers modern amenities like a new bar room for those looking to host local functions in the 5th Ward.

The takeaway

The transformation of the former club site demonstrates how private owners can successfully adapt older community buildings for contemporary commercial use. Interested organizers should assess if the site's dual-capacity layout meets their specific logistical requirements.