War Memorial Auditorium

Just across the street from the Tennessee Tower is the War Memorial Auditorium. After World War I, local veterans, the Tennessee Historical Society, and the Nashville Engineering Association collectively advocated for the establishment of a permanent memorial dedicated to the war. In 1925, the Neoclassical-style War Memorial Auditorium was constructed. For more about its architecture take our Capitol and Church Architecture walking tour.

After being situated in the National Life insurance building, Belcourt Theatre, and Dixie Tabernacle in East Nashville, the Grand Ole Opry moved to War Memorial Auditorium in 1939. For the next four years, several noteworthy artists made their Opry debut including Bill Monroe, Ernest Tubb, and Minnie Pearl, whom we will discuss in further detail later in the tour. 

Not long after the Opry move to War Memorial Auditorium, the show landed its first national sponsor—Prince Albert Tobacco—thanks to the William Esty advertising firm. The deal secured a 30-minute NBC broadcast, dramatically expanding the show’s reach. At the same time, National Life salesmen distributed free tickets, helping turn the Opry into a Saturday night tradition.

To manage the rowdy crowds that the Opry attracted, the venue began charging a 25-cent admission fee, the first admission fee in Opry history. However, this measure did not succeed, and the Opry relocated from the War Memorial in 1943 to the Ryman Auditorium. In 2010, the Grand Ole Opry returned to the War Memorial Auditorium temporarily due to the flooding of the Grand Ole Opry House off Briley Parkway.

Beyond its association with the Opry, the War Memorial Auditorium played a significant role in Nashville's music scene. In the 1950s, it served as a prominent stop on the African American Theater Circuit, often referred to as the "Chitlin' Circuit," hosting acclaimed artists like Bo Diddley, Ray Charles, and The Five Satins in Nashville.

(Verse One)

Bo Diddley buy babe a diamond ring

If that diamond ring don't shine

He gonna take it to a private eye

If that private eye can't see

He'd better not take the ring from me

(Verse Two)

Bo Diddley caught a nanny goat to make his pretty baby a Sunday coat

Bo Diddley caught a bearcat to make his pretty baby a Sunday hat

The War Memorial Auditorium also played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement. During the 1960s, it served as a gathering place for activists advocating for racial equality. For more on War Memorial Plaza and Auditorium take our Civil Right Sit-ins, Seedy Side and Printers Alley, Hidden History and Haunts, Women’s History Highlights, and Civic and Public Spaces walking tours.

Now head south and turn RIGHT on Broadway, heading west (away from the honky tonks!) Stay to the left as the road splits into Broadway and West End Ave. Continue on Broadway as it becomes 21st Ave S. Learn more about this area on our Belmont-Hillsboro-Vanderbilt tour. Turn RIGHT onto Belcourt Ave. and park in the Belcourt Theatre lot or along the street.