Remembering the World War I Doughboy: The History of Tennessee’s War Memorial

The Tennessee State Museum is pleased to announce that its exhibition, Remembering the World War I Doughboy: The History of Tennessee’s War Memorial, on view at the Military Branch Museum, has been extended until December 31, 2016, due to popular demand. The exhibit, originally slated to conclude on June 11, highlights the history behind the War Memorial Building which was built in 1925 as a result of Tennessee’s efforts to preserve the memory of those who fought and died in World War I.

An exhibition highlighting Tennessee’s efforts to preserve the memory of those who fought and died in World War I and the history behind the War Memorial Building will be on view at the Military Branch Museum.

WWI was often referred to as the “war to end all wars.” In 1919, with soldiers returning from overseas, the memory of those who would never return was fresh in the minds of many Americans. The Tennessee State General Assembly called for “a lasting monument to honor heroes of the world war.” Initially, Nashville’s Parthenon was considered, but by 1925, a stunning new classical memorial and auditorium stood across from the State Capitol.

The story of the War Memorial Building’s origins will be told with particular focus on those Tennesseans who served in France, then returned to ensure that their comrades and their military service would always be remembered. Men like Alvin York, who marched down the red carpet of the new auditorium to the strains of “Dixie” at the opening dedication, would likely be proud to know that the building continues to serve as a link to this important past.

Source: Tennessee State Museum