Abbeville Opera House
National Register Listing
Street Address:
Court Sq., Abbeville, SC (Abbeville County)
NRHP Nomination Form
Record Number:
S10817701002
Description and Narrative:
Abbeville Opera House opened its doors in 1904 and served as a cultural center for theatrical productions, public speeches, and other town events. The Opera House drew prominent attractions such as the Ziegfield Follies, George White Scandals, Jimmy Durante, and Fanny Brice. This three-story brick building is built in the Beaux-Arts classical style and is located on Abbeville’s public square adjacent to the courthouse. The Opera House has unusual brickwork on the main floor, which includes a starburst design around keystones, an elaborate entrance crowned by large diminishing stone slabs, masonry quoins, and a large entablature with dentils and fretwork. The design of the Opera House closely copied Atlanta’s Grant Theatre and Richmond’s Lyric, with a huge 7,500 square-foot stage to accommodate large touring casts. The Opera House is one of few remaining in South Carolina, and it was fully restored in 1968. According to local tradition, William Jennings Bryan spoke from the Opera House stage during his campaign for President of the United States. Listed in the National Register July 1, 1970.
Period of Significance:
1904
Level of Significance:
Local
Area of Significance:
Social History;Archeology: Historic - Aboriginal;Art;Community Planning and Development;Performing Arts;Politics/Government;Literature;Landscape Architecture;Education
National Register Determination:
listed
Date of Certification:
July 1 1970
