WARRENTON GYMNASIUM HISTORY

Warrenton History Spotlight
Warrenton Gymnasium Auditorium – Now the Warrenton Cultural Center
In the heart of downtown Warrenton stands a lasting symbol of American resilience and local pride—the Warrenton Gymnasium Auditorium, now known as
the Warrenton Cultural Center.
This iconic structure was built in the 1930s as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, a sweeping series of federal programs designed to pull the United States out of the Great Depression. One of the key components of the New Deal was the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which provided jobs to millions of Americans by funding the construction of public buildings, roads, parks, and more. Small towns like Warrenton benefited greatly from these investments, gaining infrastructure that would support growth for generations.
The Gymnasium Auditorium was originally constructed to serve the local high school, providing a space for physical education, sports, assemblies, and community events. Its sturdy brick construction, symmetrical columns, and timeless design reflect the architectural style often seen in New Deal-era buildings—built to last, and built with purpose.
As years passed and educational facilities evolved, the building took on new life. Today, it operates as the Warrenton Cultural Center, continuing its legacy as
a gathering place. It now hosts theatrical productions, art events, community meetings, and classes, keeping the spirit of connection and enrichment alive.
​This building is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a chapter of our shared story. From its roots in federal recovery efforts to its role as a cultural beacon today,
​the Warrenton Cultural Center stands as a proud reminder of what communities can build—together.
Come by, take in the history, and be a part of its next chapter.
Photo/Article Courtesy: Warren County Chamber of Commerce