Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, July 7, 2026, for a one-hour tour hosted by CMHS Trustee Colonel Todd Mayer. Learn about the building's storied past while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie. In addition to exploring the Hall’s stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture and rich cultural legacy, guests will learn about its deep connections to Cincinnati veterans and military history. Memorial Hall stands today as both a premier performing arts venue and a lasting monument to those who served.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m.
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Music Trivia Night
Back by popular demand!
Join the Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS), Last Call Trivia, and Higher Gravity on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for this very special Music Trivia Night, with Grammy Award Winner-themed Q&A and amazing craft beer on tap!
This 60-minute game is FREE to play (team registration recommended). Prizes will be awarded to 1st and 2nd place teams.
Special thanks to Higher Gravity for generously donating $1 from every draft, house wine pour, cocktail, and liquor pour from the event to LAS.
Higher Gravity is located at 4106 Hamilton Avenue in Northside. Free and metered street parking available in the surrounding area.
This Historic Preservation Month, Help Memorial Hall "Shine On!"
This Historic Preservation Month, help Memorial Hall “shine on” with a fresh, clean façade for its tenth anniversary post-renovation! Our goal is $15,000 to support a specialty chemical pressure wash of the sandstone and granite comprising the historic venue’s remarkable front entrance.
"Shine On!” is the latest stage in Memorial Hall’s $1.5 million capital campaign, a collaboration of the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society, 3CDC, and Hamilton County. To date, $1.1 million has been raised from individual giving, private foundations, and the building’s owner, Hamilton County. Those funds have been used to start or complete critical preservation efforts, including:
Roof Replacement ✔️
Skyward-Facing Masonry Repairs ✔️
Copper Box Gutter Replacement ✔️
Rewiring of Proscenium Arches ✔️
Resurfacing Wood Floors ✔️
Restoration of Historic Wood Doors – In process
Restoration of Historic Wood Windows – In process
Interior Plaster Repair & Decorative Painting – In process
Please consider a donation in any amount to help Memorial Hall Shine On! Even a small gift will go a long way toward ensuring that our treasured venue looks as fantastic as the day it opened nearly 120 years ago.
Donations to non-profit Memorial Hall are fully tax-deductible.
To make a contribution:
Online: CLICK HERE and make a donation via credit card
Phone: Call the Memorial Hall box office at (513) 977-8838 (Tuesday through Friday, 1-6pm)
Mail: Mail a check payable to “Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society” with memo "Shine On!" to 1225 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
5+ Questions with LAS Advisory Committee Member Jennifer Marco
The Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) has always been shaped by people who bring both a love of music and a genuine investment in community, creativity, and connection. Jennifer Marco is a wonderful example of that spirit. Since becoming involved with LAS, she has been a thoughtful presence behind the scenes—bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a willingness to support the series however she can.
Jennifer’s background spans both the technical and creative worlds. Professionally, she works in digital health and technology, while her earlier experiences in live music production at Riverbend Music Center gave her a firsthand appreciation for the work that goes into creating memorable concert experiences. Beyond her professional life, she has also dedicated time to fundraising, volunteer coordination, and community-focused events throughout Cincinnati.
In this week’s Q&A, Jennifer shares more about her experiences, her connection to live music, and what excites her most about being part of the LAS community.
What first drew you to get involved with Memorial Hall and LAS?
It was really a combination of community, music, and wanting to give back locally in a meaningful way. I have always felt enthusiastic about supporting and staying connected to the local arts scene. The more I learned about the organization and its mission, the more it genuinely felt like the perfect fit for me personally. As an avid supporter of music, I felt I could bring a unique perspective and fresh lens to the LAS committee.
I am currently a healthcare IT professional, but I also had a background working at Riverbend Music Center in production support many years ago, and that experience deepened my appreciation for live music and the impact it can have on people and communities. I value the opportunity to serve and contribute to Cincinnati’s cultural landscape while helping to create an experience that brings people together.
What LAS concert(s) have you attended? Which did you enjoy most and why?
I’ve attended Christian McBride, esperanza spalding, and, most recently, Madison Cunningham. I enjoyed esperanza’s show the most because it felt healing and immersive. I resonate with how she blends jazz, storytelling, and experimentation in a way that evokes deeper feelings. She took me on an unforgettable sonic journey!
What makes the Memorial Hall experience different from other venues in the city?
Memorial Hall offers a unique experience: an intimate concert with exceptional acoustics set within an architecturally and culturally rich historic gem that exudes its own charm.
As someone with a strong marketing lens, what do you think more people should know about LAS?
The series offers a trifecta experience: a beautifully curated evening showcasing Grammy-nominated and winning performers and bands, spotlighting local musicians at our pre-concert reception, and the opportunity to support the local restaurant community.
What album would you take to a desert island?
Thievery Corporation - “The Temple of I&I”
What song makes you want to dance?
Idris Muhammad - “Could Heaven Ever Be Like This (Chris Lorenzo, Walker & Royce Remix)”
Who is the most underrated musician, in your opinion?
Hiatus Kaiyote—their artistic vision deserves a much brighter spotlight than it currently receives.
Good Food. Good Service. Good Relationships: Q&A with Marvin Smith of Ollie’s Trolley
For years, Marvin Smith and Ollie’s Trolley have been an unforgettable part of the Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) experience, bringing warmth, creativity, and generosity to Memorial Hall.
A Cincinnati icon with a heart for people, Marvin has built Ollie’s Trolley into far more than a restaurant. It’s a place where neighbors feel cared for, customers become regulars, and community is always at the center. His impact has reached so many people that the city honored him with Marvin Smith Way, a fitting tribute to the legacy he continues to build.
At LAS, Marvin has been a remarkable long-term partner. Whether he’s serving comfort food, tailoring a menu to the evening’s artist, or welcoming patrons with the same joy and care he brings to everything he does, Marvin helps make our pre-concert receptions personal and memorable.
We’re grateful to share this Q&A with Marvin, reflecting on his partnership with LAS, the story of Ollie’s Trolley, and the food, music, art, and relationships that have shaped his life.
What’s it been like partnering with LAS over the years?
I’ve looked forward to every event, anticipating what the crowd would be like. How many people would show up? How could I match the food with the music and/or the artist’s roots, ethnicity, or the weather? Will it be cold and rainy or wet? Warm, hot, or sunshine? It’s been my absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to be a “food artist,” free to express myself and deliver pure artistry.
What do you enjoy most about serving food in a historic space like Memorial Hall?
The glow, the smiles, the warmth on people’s faces as they dutifully select from what I have gathered for them “buffet-style.” It’s amazing the success we have had in bringing the right variety of food for an always-changing and loyal repeat audience base. We actually have customers who request that we bring some menu items they liked for the next concert! And, of course, I’m happy to do so.
Food has such a powerful way of bringing people together. How do you see that connection playing out at events like LAS?
A lot of people have told me personally that they come for the food and the atmosphere of sharing the food in such a cozy, warm environment! It has to do with what some would call “comfort food.” So, I consistently try to have something for everyone. Vegetarians, meat choices, ethnic influences, vegan, fast food. Examples we have had: Greek spaghetti, tacos. Walking tacos, collard greens, Italian sausages with peppers and onions, fried chicken, deep-fried turkey, crowd-favorite brisket sliders, and our world-class “OLLIEBURGER.”
For those who may not know the full story, how would you describe Ollie’s Trolley and its place in Cincinnati?
The people in the community describe Ollie’s Trolley as a place we have of our own. A place where no one in the community goes hungry. A place that represents thousands of customers over the years that just keep coming back for the good food, good service, community spirit, and kind words to “Mr. Ollie” not to sell the restaurant or leave the neighborhood.
What has been most meaningful to you about building relationships with organizations, patrons, and community partners through Ollie’s?
It’s not always about money! It’s relationships! I brought no money to Cincinnati, OH, when I moved here in the early 1980s. I brought an honorable discharge from the United States Air Force, a GI Bill-funded college education in economics from Wittenberg University, attended Xavier University as a veteran, and earned a master’s degree in administration. Learned to build relationships!!!!!!! Ollie’s Trolley opened on December 7, 1993. Good food, good service. Good RELATIONSHIPS!
Food and art both seem to be such important parts of your life. How have those passions shaped who you are?
I love food. I love to cook.
I married my college sweetheart, Dorothy M. Smith.
Art Student, Wittenberg University
Master of Arts Degree
Retired Art Teacher 33 years
Author: The Bullying Bee
Artist Studio
Pendleton Art Center (currently)
I married my college sweetheart, Dorothy M. Smith.
I married ART!!!
What is your first or favorite memory of live music?
Four friends and I, at 9-14 years old in Springfield, OH, would sing the blues on street corners and everywhere we could, and people back in the day would listen. We never made it big time. But passersby actually put money in a hat on the ground. Some local juke joints actually paid us a few dollars to show up and sing the blues.
Is there a song or artist that always puts you in a good mood?
Whitney Houston - “I’ll Always Love You”
If Ollie’s Trolley had a soundtrack, what song would have to be on it?
Aretha Franklin - “Respect”
Is there a concert, artist, or song that takes you back to a specific time in your life?
Frank Sinatra - “My Way”
What’s a song that reminds you of Cincinnati, community, or celebration?
James Brown - “I Don’t Want Nobody To Give Me Nothing”
Open the door
I’ll get it myself…………
What was your first concert?
B.B. King
What is your favorite item on the Ollie’s Trolley menu?
Lincoln Ware Breakfast Cup with scrambled eggs/pepper jack cheese, grits, veggie bacon, diced tomatoes, grilled onions, jalapeño peppers, fried potatoes, and onions.
Is there one dish that you feel best represents Ollie’s?
Ollieburger and Ollie Fries; Deep-Fried Turkey.
What’s one meal, memory, or flavor that takes you back to childhood?
Fresh-boiled green beans and cut-up potatoes that we grew in our backyard garden, cornbread, fried chicken backs (affordable at that time). When my mother cooked this meal, we, as a family of 12 children plus Mom and Dad, could eat all we wanted! Those were the good old days. We were never hungry!!!
Meet Bill Thompson: A Voice Behind the Longworth-Anderson Series
Behind every unforgettable Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) evening at Memorial Hall, there are people whose passion for music makes it all possible—and Bill Thompson is certainly one of them. A Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society Advisory Board member, LAS Advisory Committee member, and concert sponsor, Bill has been part of our story for several years. Whether he’s championing artists, hosting Blue Snakes & Banjos on WAIF, or conducting thoughtful interviews with musicians who take our stage, Bill brings a deep love of music—and a genuine curiosity—to everything he does.
We’re excited to provide a glimpse into the musical influences, memories, and moments that have shaped his connection to LAS and Memorial Hall.
What has been most meaningful to you about watching LAS grow over the years?
The return of people who could fill a much larger space: Rhiannon Giddens, Marty Stuart, and Mavis Staples. Rhiannon came here last year from Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, where she had sold out the 2,362-seat room (for comparison, the Taft Theatre holds 2,261). The series and the venue have built a reputation among artists who aren’t interested in squeezing every dollar from the audience.
What do you love most about Memorial Hall, both as a historic building and as a place for live music?
I appreciate the building as an architectural gem. However, if it didn’t have the Annie W. and Elizabeth M. Anderson Theater, I would have visited it once after the renovation was complete. I return again and again for the music. The intimate theater is the best listening room in the Tri-State.
What’s the first concert you ever attended?
I’m an old man, but I have been going to concerts since I was in junior high school in Piqua, OH. I can’t swear that this was the first show I saw, but my dad drove me to Hara Arena in Dayton to see the Rolling Stones. Here’s the AI description: “The band played a notoriously poorly attended concert on November 13, 1964, during their second U.S. tour. Only 300 to 650 fans attended the 6,000-seat venue, resulting in a short, roughly 20-minute set. The show was criticized by locals and considered a commercial flop.” I was not one of the locals who criticized the event; I was mesmerized. It might have only been 20 minutes, but it seemed like hours to me. I was already music mad, but this convinced me I was onto something special.
What’s a song that instantly takes you back to childhood?
There are many because AM radio was filled with great music in the mid-1960s—Motown, British Invasion, the Beach Boys, one-hit wonders, etc.—but when I hear “Satisfaction” by the Rolling Stones, I head straight to the Rec, a teen club in Troy, about 8 miles south of Piqua. They had after-school events and dances on weekend evenings, so whenever I could catch a ride with a friend’s older sibling, I was there. In retrospect, as much as I liked looking at the local girls, it’s the music that I remember most.
What are you listening to right now?
I co-host Blue Snakes & Banjos on WAIF-FM 88.3 with Bob Hust (also a Founder of LAS). We have been on the air since 2014. I spend my time trying to keep up with new music from artists I like and searching for new artists that sound intriguing. I subscribe to multiple newsletters for tips about people I should give a listen to. It would be silly to say who I’m listening to now, but I’ll tell you who I have seen and who I have tickets for this year: Amythyst Kiah; Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill of the Continental Drifters; Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit; Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens; the Montvales; Madison Cunningham; Bob Dylan; St. Paul & the Broken Bones; Shawn Mullins; Paul Thorn and Scott Miller; Bruce Springsteen; the local honeys; Paul Simon; Daniel Donato and Marty Stuart; Drivin N Cryin; Wilco; Graham Nash; Watchhouse; Yacht Rock Revue; and Duane Betts. I have my eye on some others as well.
If your life had a soundtrack, what’s one song that would have to be on it?
“Gimme Shelter” by the Rolling Stones. The Let It Bleed album came out in the fall of 1969, two months into my freshman year of college, which was the most formative time in my life.
How has music impacted your life?
I was watching the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964, when the Beatles played for the first time. After it was finished, I went into the bathroom and combed what little bit of hair I had into bangs for school on Monday. When I arrived, I wasn’t the only boy in the seventh grade who did the same thing that day. My friends and I had always enjoyed music, but after that, it became all-encompassing. My only regret is that I didn’t have the discipline to learn to play an instrument. But I could not have chosen a more rewarding obsession.
Memorial Hall and Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society present The 122nd Army Band - America 250: Music of, by, and for the People
The 122nd Army Band of the Ohio Army National Guard brings their exciting America 250 show to Memorial Hall in Cincinnati's historic Over-the-Rhine on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 7 p.m., with generous support from Jim & Marilyn Wellinghoff. This live performance celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States with music from across the nation, performed by the Guard’s finest musicians. It will be an evening of dynamic performances, exciting music, and celebration. From revolutionary fife and drum to modern country, from classic Sousa marches to hard-charging rock-and-roll, the 122nd Army Band will cover a breadth of American music and offers something for everyone. And, of course, patriotic favorites that pay tribute to America and the veterans that secured and defended the last 250 years of independence!
Reserve your FREE tickets here.
ABOUT THE 122ND ARMY BAND
Based in Columbus, The 122nd Army Band performs across Ohio and beyond, serving as musical ambassadors for the Army National Guard. Their concerts feature a variety of ensembles and music styles, making every performance memorable and meaningful. We hope you'll join us for this one-of-a-kind event! Bring your family, invite your friends, and join the 122nd's Soldier-Musicians to celebrate 250 years of American freedom and independence! For more information, visit our website. We look forward to seeing you at Hamilton County Memorial Hall for a night of music and community spirit!
Memorial Hall Voted "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine!
We're thrilled to announce that Hamilton County Memorial Hall, “home” of the Longworth-Anderson Series, was recently voted our region's "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine readers.
To be voted as such in a city bursting with excellent venues is an incredible honor. There's also some poetry in receiving this recognition as we prepare to celebrate the building's 10th anniversary post-renovation.
Thanks to the collaboration of Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS—our nonprofit helping to guide and preserve Memorial Hall since 2004), Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC—operations and programs manager), and Hamilton County (Memorial Hall's owner), this historic building underwent an $11.2-million comprehensive renovation and modernization in 2015-16, resulting in the first-class performance and event space it is today. Over the past three years, we partnered on a building assessment study and capital campaign to raise an additional $1.1 million from the Friends of Memorial Hall, including $500,000 from Hamilton County, for high-priority projects including: roof system replacement; proscenium lighting upgrades; restoration of historic doors, windows, and decorative painting; and safety improvements.
Preservation of this 1908 Beaux Arts treasure is ongoing, and each of Memorial Hall's partners (CMHS, 3CDC, and Hamilton County) plays a pivotal role in its continued success. CMHS’s leadership in advocacy, fundraising, and our popular Longworth-Anderson Series undoubtedly contributed to this award.
As patrons and supporters of Memorial Hall, this recognition belongs to YOU, our community, as much as it does to us. Thank you for your investment in the venue we all love, and for trusting our team to protect this "perfect gem" of a theater for generations to come.
Memorial Hall “Taste and Tour” with Bill Baumann
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, May 26, 2026, for a one-hour tour hosted by Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Longworth-Anderson Series. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff Named Trustees Emeriti of Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society
CMHS & LAS Chair Maggie Brennan with Trustees Emeriti Jim Wellinghoff & Melvin Grier and Cori Wolff, Executive Director of the CMHS and LAS
Memorial Hall was built to honor service and strengthen community—so it’s especially fitting to recognize two individuals whose dedication has helped secure its future. After more than a decade of steady guidance and hands-on leadership, Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff are transitioning from active board service to the honorary advisory role of Trustee Emeritus.
Their contributions helped shape Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS)’s long-term direction and strengthen our foundation of preservation, programming, and partnerships today.
Jim Wellinghoff
Jim’s connection to Memorial Hall is deeply aligned with the building’s purpose. A Vietnam War veteran, he has brought a perspective rooted in service, responsibility, and commitment.
Throughout his tenure with CMHS, Jim offered strategic guidance informed by decades of civic involvement, including his presidency of the Mercantile Library. Within CMHS, he served as Treasurer and drew on his background in investment management to support financial stewardship and long-range planning.
A defining part of Jim’s legacy is preservation. He helped shape the vision behind Memorial Hall’s Second Century Fund, ensuring long-term care of this treasured venue for generations to come. He contributed to major preservation milestones, including advancing the $1-million Annie W. and Elizabeth M. Anderson Foundation gift tied to the 2015 renovation and naming of the Longworth Anderson Stage. Jim also helped create the philanthropic backbone of the Longworth-Anderson Series, leveraging key relationships such as The George and Margaret McLane Foundation annual matching grant.
Melvin Grier
Melvin has served CMHS with a distinctive Cincinnati lens—one rooted in a career dedicated to documenting the city. A U.S. Air Force veteran, his experience naturally aligns with Memorial Hall’s mission and history.
Over nearly ten years on the board, Melvin became a key voice in shaping CMHS as both a preservation organization and cultural institution. A Greater Cincinnati Journalism Hall of Fame inductee and respected photojournalist, he offered invaluable insight into how Memorial Hall communicates, builds trust, and represents itself to the broader community. His nonprofit work with arts organizations such as FotoFocus helped connect CMHS to Cincinnati’s creative ecosystem.
Melvin’s impact is especially visible in programming. His advocacy helped sustain a vibrant jazz thread within the Longworth-Anderson Series, reflecting Cincinnati’s musical history while welcoming world-class artists. He also encouraged thoughtful board growth and leadership that better reflects the full diversity of our city.
Honoring the past, strengthening the future
Trustee Emeritus is a recognition of service that has meaningfully shaped an organization’s trajectory. We are grateful for Melvin Grier and Jim Wellinghoff—their leadership, their belief in Memorial Hall, and the lasting impact of their work.
Cincinnati Gives 2025 Challenge
The Cincinnati Gives Challenge is a friendly fundraising competition whereby local nonprofits compete to raise the most money, with the top teams winning cash prizes from Cincinnati Magazine. We’re back at it this year and looking for your support! The 2025 challenge runs from December 1 at 5 p.m. through December 11 at 5 p.m.
In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join the “Friends & Founders of the Longworth-Anderson Series” and be part of the exciting story of Cincinnati’s multi-genre, contemporary music series featuring Grammy Award-winning talent at beautiful, historic Memorial Hall.
Memorial Hall “Taste and Tour” with Bill Baumann
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us Tuesday, January 6, 2025, for a one-hour tour hosted by Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Longworth-Anderson Series. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Binski's Meat Raffle
The Longworth-Anderson Series is this week's nonprofit beneficiary of Binski’s Meat Raffle!
Join us Friday, December 5, 2025, from 7-10 p.m. for this fun and quirky event at your favorite friendly neighborhood bar in Camp Washington. Binski's Bar will be collecting donations for LAS in exchange for raffle tickets to win meat (or vegetarian fare).
Feel free to pop in--no RSVP needed!
Special Offer for LAS Patrons—50% Off America's River Roots Spirit of America Gala
Join America's River Roots and Cincinnati's world-class performing arts to celebrate at The Spirit of America Gala with a moving tribute to America's 250th. The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet, and Cincinnati Opera will perform at Music Hall on October 7, 2025, to kick off festival week and immerse Cincinnati with the spirit of freedom. Enjoy this unique performance with a special 50% discount on all tickets (two-ticket minimum purchase) using this special link or QR code with code ROOTS250.
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society Names Bill Baumann Chair Emeritus of the Longworth-Anderson Series
The Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is honored to announce the election of Bill Baumann as Chair Emeritus of the Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS), recognizing his extraordinary legacy of leadership as he transitions from his role as chair of the series.
As chair of CMHS (the presenting organization of the LAS) from 2012-24, Bill was instrumental in leading the development of the concept of the LAS, securing significant financial support, and championing the series as a potential new vibrant part of Cincinnati’s arts and entertainment calendar. The LAS, featuring Grammy-winning and other nationally recognized performers and bands across a wide range of contemporary music genres, was designed to fill an unserved niche as the region’s only contemporary music series.
In addition to Bill's service on behalf of the LAS, he has been a steadfast advocate for the preservation of Memorial Hall as one of the region's most important civic, arts, and architectural buildings. Under his leadership, CMHS was instrumental in the reopening of Memorial Hall in 2013 and its early revitalization efforts, as well as securing $2.5 million in private contributions for the 2016 comprehensive renovation of Memorial Hall and $1.1 million for the 2024 preservation capital campaign.
“The opportunity to work alongside the dedicated and skilled trustees of the Memorial Hall Society and Cori Wolff, the outstanding executive director of the CHMS and LAS, has been a distinct honor and rewarding,” said Bill. “The success and high utilization and patronage that Memorial Hall and the LAS enjoy today are far beyond our early hopes and expectations.”
As chair emeritus, Bill will continue to be a vital part of the LAS community—serving as an ambassador of the CMHS and LAS’s mission and providing tours of Memorial Hall.
“It's been an honor to work with Bill over the past eight years to shape and grow the LAS. Thanks to his passion and advocacy, we continue to meet and surpass all of the original goals for the series—it's a perennial and popular addition to Cincinnati's entertainment calendar, demonstrating the value of Memorial Hall as an integral part of the arts and theater district around Washington Park. We couldn’t have done it without Bill’s vision and support,” said Cori.
Looking ahead, CMHS is entering an exciting new season of partnerships and creative programming led by a collaborative team of staff and board members working to expand our impact in the community. Maggie Brennan, CMHS's recently elected board chair, will assume the additional role of chair of the LAS, working alongside Cori and our LAS Advisory Committee to continue bringing top-notch talent to the region.
Memorial Hall "Taste and Tours" with Bill Baumann and Colonel Todd Mayer
Taste and Tour with Bill Baumann
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us on a one-hour tour hosted by Bill Baumann, Chair Emeritus of the CMHS and Longworth-Anderson Series. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture while enjoying complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 25
REGISTER HERE
Taste and Tour with Colonel Todd Mayer
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
5-7 p.m.
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS) is pleased to present our new Taste and Tour series at historic Memorial Hall, with generous support from the Friends of Memorial Hall. Join us on a one-hour tour hosted by Colonel Todd Mayer, CMHS Trustee. Learn about Memorial Hall's storied past and stunning 1908 Beaux Arts architecture. Enjoy complimentary, artfully crafted charcuterie from Taste of Boujie and a Veterans Affairs art exhibition on view in the lower-level ballrooms.
CHARCUTERIE & SELF-PAY BAR (21+): 5:30-6 p.m.
TOUR: 6-7 p.m. starting at the Memorial Hall front steps and moving inside
FREE | 18+ | MAXIMUM CAPACITY 50
REGISTER HERE
Taste of Boujie is a Cincinnati-based business specializing in elevated charcuterie and catering experiences. Founded by Roxanne Adams during the pandemic, they create artfully styled boards and small bites that blend flavor, creativity, and presentation. From intimate gatherings to large events, they’re passionate about bringing people together over beautiful, delicious food.
Community Nights at Findlay Market
Enjoy the arts at Findlay Market!
Community Nights at Findlay Market is a series aimed at bringing the community together and strengthening the bond between the historic Over-the-Rhine market and its neighbors. The events will take place at Jane’s (corner of Elm and Elder Streets) every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from April to October 2025. Each iteration will feature a unique theme, with local nonprofits invited to set up tables, offer fun activities, and share helpful information.
The initiative is all about creating a welcoming space where people of all ages can come together, learn about valuable community resources, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market. It also supports cultural and income diversity by making the market more accessible to all community members and promoting a diverse range of organizations. Whether you’re interested in music, film, theater, or visual arts, there’s something for you. Mix and mingle with fellow creatives, try something new, and grab a drink or two!
Visit our Longworth-Anderson Series information table on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Learn about our contemporary music series, participate in an interactive activity, and win exciting prizes like Friends & Founders membership, complimentary concert tickets, and Memorial Hall swag.
Participating Organizations
Keeping the Spirit Alive: Peter Rowan & Sam Grisman Revisit Old & In the Way
In the early 1970s, a group of musicians came together with a shared love for bluegrass and pushed the boundaries of music. The result was Old & In the Way—a short-lived but legendary group featuring Jerry Garcia on banjo, David Grisman on mandolin, Peter Rowan on guitar and vocals, Vassar Clements on fiddle, and John Kahn on bass.
Though the band only performed together for about a year, their impact was monumental. The live album Old & In the Way (1975) became one of the best-selling bluegrass records of all time, bringing this unique sound to countless new ears. For many listeners, it was their very first introduction to bluegrass. The band’s repertoire—songs like Midnight Moonlight, Wild Horses, and Panama Red—combined tradition with improvisation, honoring the genre’s roots while infusing it with a free-spirited, almost jam-band sensibility.
Fast forward to today, and the music of Old & In the Way lives on through a special collaboration between two artists deeply connected to its legacy: Peter Rowan and Sam Grisman.
Rowan, a founding member, was the distinctive voice and songwriting force behind many of the group’s most beloved tunes. His career has spanned decades and styles, but his role in shaping Old & In the Way remains central to his story.
Sam Grisman brings a family tie that runs just as deep—he is the son of David Grisman, the founding player whose partnership with Jerry Garcia produced not just Old & In the Way but decades of genre-defying acoustic music. By joining forces with Rowan, Sam bridges generations: honoring his father’s role while bringing fresh energy and interpretation to the material.
Why It Matters
For fans of bluegrass, folk, and The Grateful Dead alike, seeing Rowan and Grisman perform Old & In the Way songs is much more than a nostalgic trip. It is a chance to experience a living thread of music history.
It’s also a reminder of just how groundbreaking that music was. At a time when bluegrass was still largely defined by tradition, Old & In the Way showed that the genre could be both deeply authentic and adventurous.
In many ways, their performances are about continuity—keeping alive a spirit of collaboration, experimentation, and reverence for tradition that made Old & In the Way so influential. And just like the original band, Rowan and Grisman’s collaboration continues to blend genres and generations, proving that great music always finds fresh ways to resonate. They invite new listeners into the fold while rekindling memories for those who first discovered bluegrass through Garcia and his bandmates back in the ’70s.
Whether you’re a lifelong Deadhead, a bluegrass devotee, or simply someone who loves live music, witnessing Peter Rowan and Sam Grisman celebrate Old & In the Way is an opportunity to connect with one of the most important crossroads in American music history.
Catch Peter Rowan with Sam Grisman Project on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in the Longworth-Anderson Series at historic Memorial Hall. Buy your tickets today, then check out our Spotify playlist and get ready for the big night!
—Kyle Fugate
Memorial Hall and Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47, Grand Army of the Republic
1909 Memorial Service at Memorial Hall: Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47, G.A.R.
On Sunday, December 26, 1909, the Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) held its annual memorial service at the newly completed Memorial Hall auditorium in Cincinnati. The preserved program from this event offers valuable insight into how Civil War veterans continued to honor their fallen comrades well into the 20th century.
The Grand Army of the Republic and Post 47
The G.A.R. was a national fraternal organization composed of Union veterans of the American Civil War. Founded in 1866, it played a significant role in shaping post-war public memory, advocating for veterans’ rights, and establishing Memorial Day as a national holiday. Posts were organized across the country by state departments. Post No. 47, based in Cincinnati, was one of several in the area and named in honor of General William Haines Lytle.
About General William H. Lytle
William Haines Lytle (1826–1863) was a Cincinnati-born lawyer, state legislator, and Union brigadier general. He was also a well-known poet, remembered especially for his work “Antony and Cleopatra.” Lytle died in battle at Chickamauga, and his funeral in Cincinnati became a city-wide event. Thousands gathered as his riderless horse, Fallaballaugh, led the procession—boots reversed in the stirrups, a time-honored military symbol of loss. He was laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery, and his legacy endures in Cincinnati landmarks like Lytle Park and Memorial Hall.
Memorial Hall and Its Purpose
Memorial Hall was constructed between 1908 and 1909 as a dedicated space to honor veterans of the Civil War and to host civic and commemorative events. Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 was among the organizations that regularly held meetings and ceremonies there.
Overview of the 1909 Program
The printed memorial program includes several key sections:
Roll of Deceased Members — The front page lists members of Post 47 who died in 1909, along with their Civil War units, dates of death, and ages. These records are particularly useful for researchers and genealogists, offering details such as “Co. D, 28th O.V.I.” (Company D, 28th Ohio Volunteer Infantry).
Order of Service — The memorial program included a structured sequence of musical and spoken elements, such as:
Patriotic hymns including “America”
Recitations including “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”
Vocal and piano performances
A memorial address by Mr. Harley V. Speelman
Bugle taps by Mr. Jacob Hoos
Participation by students from the 27th District School
Post Officers for 1909 — The program also lists the officers of Post 47, including:
Commander John Brinkman
Senior Vice Commander Fred Rullkoetter
Other officers such as the adjutant, chaplain, and quartermaster
The G.A.R. insignia—a five-pointed star with Union imagery—is featured prominently on the program. The piano used for the event was provided by the Wm. H. Lytle Post No. 47 , then located at 222–224 West Fourth Street in Cincinnati.
Historical Significance
This document provides a detailed example of how G.A.R. posts commemorated their members and maintained civic visibility. Organizations like Post 47 often participated in public observances, parades, and political events tied to Union veteran identity. Archival references also note that the Wm. H. Lytle Post had an active drum corps in the 1890s.
These materials are valuable for historians studying post-war veteran culture, public memory, and community organization in the early 20th century. They also serve as a resource for those researching family history or the activities of specific Civil War units.
—Kyle Fugate
Special thanks to Colonel Todd Mayer of John R. Little Post Inc. VFW No. 3186 for providing these historical images
Capturing Legacy: Photographer J. Miles Wolf on His Work with Memorial Hall
When Cincinnati-based photographer J. Miles Wolf was asked to photograph Memorial Hall, it was an opportunity to connect his finely honed craft with a space rich in history, architecture, and emotion.
Miles first discovered photography in college, where a single course set him on a path that would span decades. In the early years of his career, he traveled extensively—capturing the landscapes of the American Southwest and the charm of European cities. His work was exhibited in galleries across the country, but eventually, Miles sought to focus closer to home. Through workshops and collaborative efforts, he refined his ability to photograph architecture with a deep understanding of structure and space.
What sets Miles apart is not just his eye for detail but his process. For the first 30 years of his career, he developed his own film, meticulously preparing every shot with the precision required before the age of editing software. Shooting with large-format 4x5 film taught him patience and attention to detail—skills that would become foundational as he worked alongside interior designers and began reverse-engineering spaces to showcase their most striking qualities. His early focus on art deco architecture fostered a deep appreciation for the intricacies of design, which remains evident in his work today.
Miles' connection to Memorial Hall began when longtime supporter Bill Baumann saw his work displayed at a FotoFocus event and invited him to photograph the building. For Miles, it was the perfect alignment of opportunity and intention. He approached the project with a desire to create images that felt both warm and welcoming—photos that could invite newcomers in and also resonate with those who already know and love the Hall.
“I want to make the interior so inviting that people want to go see it,” Miles shared. “It shows people how beautiful these spaces are. To see that auditorium is very eye-opening.”
He emphasized the challenge and reward of architectural photography:
“You can’t just go to a location and think you’re gonna get it,” he said. “It’s not always bright blue skies, with fluffy white clouds. You’re knocking on doors, climbing on roofs to get the shot—all while balancing the lighting, time of day, and countless other factors.”
Technology has expanded what’s possible. Miles spoke enthusiastically about how drone photography has opened new creative perspectives, particularly for a building like Memorial Hall. Even with decades of experience, these tools allow him to rediscover spaces and compose images in ways previously unimaginable.
Looking ahead, Miles is turning his lens toward nature and landscapes, including an upcoming project with the Behringer-Crawford Museum. While he will always hold a deep connection to architectural subjects, he’s eager to explore storytelling through more personal and environmental imagery.
In all his work, Miles encourages viewers to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the quiet beauty in the details—something Memorial Hall offers in abundance.
—Kyle Fugate
