McFarlin Memorial Auditorium
historic place
McFarlin Memorial Auditorium is a historic place located in Dallas, Texas, within Dallas County. This significant building on the Southern Methodist University campus opened in 1926. It was constructed as the university's third permanent building, intended to serve as a chapel large enough for the entire student body. The auditorium's construction was made possible by a generous donation from San Antonio businessman Robert M. McFarlin. Designed in the Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival architectural styles, McFarlin Memorial Auditorium is a proscenium-style theatre. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on September 27, 1980, recognized for its architecture and its role in education. The auditorium has hosted numerous notable events and speakers throughout its history. In 2023, a Texas Historical Marker was unveiled here, commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s speech, which he delivered at the auditorium on March 17, 1966. McFarlin Memorial Auditorium continues to serve the university and the community as a venue for gatherings and performances.