War Memorial Auditorium

Nashville's War Memorial Auditorium, or Tennessee War Memorial, was constructed in 1925 as a memorial to those who lost their lives fighting during World War I or the Great War. The building was designed and built by Edward Dougherty, in the Neoclassical architectural style. The building was designed to match the State Capitol building. Once finished the new building featured an auditorium that was equipped with seating for 2,200 people. An inscription on the facade reads:

"AMERICA IS PRIVILEGED TO SPEND HER BLOOD AND HER MIGHT FOR THE PRINCIPLES THAT GAVE HER BIRTH AND HAPPINESS AND THE PEACE WHICH SHE HAS TREASURED. WOODROW WILSON"

The building's dedication was an elaborate occasion, as World War I hero Alvin C. York was in attendance as well as other veterans, families of those who did not make it home, and state politicians. The building was immediately recognized with a Gold Medal Award from the American Institute of Architecture. From 1939-1943 the War Memorial Auditorium was home to the Grand Ole Opry. In 1943 the Opry moved to the nearby Ryman Auditorium. Since the Opry left, the War Memorial Auditorium has hosted concerts by the likes of Charlie Daniels, The Allman Brothers, and Mumford and Sons. The building has also hosted three United States Presidents on their campaign trails. The War Memorial Auditorium is the current home of the Nashville Symphony. On November 16, 2017 the War Memorial Auditorium was added to the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A for its overall history, and Criterion C for its architectural significance.

At Moore Historical Consulting my #1 priority is historic preservation. Do you own a historic home, commercial building, or farm? If so contact me today to learn more about the historic preservation strategies I offer. These include nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, nominations for a Permanent Conservation Easement, nominations to the Century Farms program, and writing text for historic makers. At Moore Historical Consulting I make exploring and preserving your past fun and easy.