Stambaugh Auditorium stands strong 83 years after its opening

By ROBERT K. YOSAY

YOUNGSTOWN — “This Auditorium — the gift of Henry Hamilton Stambaugh (1858-1919), a manufacturer, lover of nature of country of mankind — is dedicated to the people of this great community among whom he lived.”

High above the gothic columns of granite at the main entrance of Stambaugh Auditorium is the marble inlaid, gold-leafed words attesting to the magnificent structure on the city’s North Side.

The intent of the local industrialist and philanthropist was that the auditorium that bears his name was to be used “for the enjoyment, pleasure, entertainment and education of the community,” according to the auditorium’s Web site.

Architecturally, the auditorium is a free rendition of the classic Italian Renaissance style. The structure, built at a cost of less than $2 million, was modeled after the public auditorium in Springfield, Mass., which in turn was designed from the Pantheon in Paris.

Helmle and Corbett Architects of New York City designed and built the facility. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Originally intended to be erected either downtown or at the center of Wick Park, the 300-by-70-foot site at 1000 Fifth Ave. proved to be a wise choice, one which was enlarged to provide for parking areas when more land became available.

The opening concert was Dec. 6, 1926. Sponsored by the Monday Musical Club, the program featured world-renowned humorist Will Rogers and the DeReszk Singers.

Stambaugh Auditorium is still busy today with year-round events, including dance competitions, weddings and receptions and graduations.

Read the full story Monday, complete with several photographs of the auditorium, in The Vindicator and on Vindy.com.