CENTENNIAL ART CENTER HISTORICAL MARKER

This year Centennial Art Center celebrates its 50th anniversary as a community arts education facility and gallery.

Before celebrating the official 50th Anniversary of Centennial Art Center, it is important to acknowledge and honor the significance and impact of past events and the people who played an important role in changing segregationist policies of the past.

Built in 1932, this site served as Nashville’s premier swimming facility. The “White’s only” pool and bathhouse was abruptly shut down in 1961 in response to an effort to desegregate the pool led by two African American students, Kwame Leo Lillard and Matthew Walker Jr

On March 21, 2022 a Civil Rights historical marker was installed at the Centennial Art Center. An unveiling ceremony took place on March 23, 2022. Civil rights veterans, city and state officials, and Mayor John Cooper emphasized the importance of the event calling it a step in the right direction.