Hamilton County Memorial Hall (The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building)
The building is decorated with historic military references. The concert hall is considered acoustically perfect with excellent sight lines.
Current OwnerHamilton County
Historic StatusListed on NRHP in 1979
Unique Features"The monumental sculptures on the cornice, by Clement Barnhorn, depicit pioneer and battle figures from the American Revolution through the Spanish American War. The helmeted heads on the keysontes are thought to be Mars, god of war." From "A Walking Tour of Over-the-Rhine West" by the Cincinnati Preservation Association.
Public AccessBasement, First and Second Floors are accessible, but the balcony is not.
Resourceshttp://www.memorialhallotr.com/
Photo CreditPhotos provided by Memorial Hall / 3CDC
Completion Date1908
StyleBeaux Arts Classicism
ArchitectSamuel Hannaford & Sons,one of Cincinnati's most prolific 19th Century architects who also designed Cincinnati City Hall and Music Hall.
1225 Elm St., Cincinnati, Ohio
Renovation History
2016 : The hall features marble staircases adorned with intricate wrought iron that lead to the 556-seat proscenium theater, dubbed the Annie W. and Elizabeth M. Anderson Theater. Exceptional acoustics, decorative murals and Tiffany chandeliers enhance this historic performance space, completed with stenciled murals by Francis Pedretti. Memorial Hall offers an elegant setting for performances and unique spaces for social and business events.
The goal of the renovation was to preserve but freshen the appearance of the acoustically perfect theatre while adding modern amenities such as air conditioning, updated restrooms, and a catering kitchen. The new facility is operated by 3CDC and offers approximately 300 events per year including concerts, lectures, films, family programming, comedy, and themed parties. The facility is available for rental for corporate events, social gatherings, weddings, and theatrical events.
ArchitectJohn Senhauser Architects and Westlake Reed Leskosky