10/13/2026
Did you know that bricks from Locust Dell Academy were used in the construction of the Memorial Amphitheater on campus?
The natural “bowl shape” of what is now the Memorial Amphitheater was used well before the college even began in Florence. During the time of the Locust Dell Academy, the annual May Day program was held across the street amongst the giant oak trees.
In 1919, a simple stage was built as a raised platform, semicircular in shape, using unpainted pine planks. The back of the stage consisted of eight columns connected by one long plank at the top. Lights were strung along the tops of the columns.
Recognizing the need for a more permanent amphitheater stage at the institution and also wanting to create a memorial for those students who had lost their lives during World War I, Alumnus and current faculty member, Mrs. Susan Jones Price, set out over the next fifteen years to gather donations to fund the new construction. Here, the idea of the Memorial Amphitheater was conceived.
Construction of the Amphitheater began December 18, 1933, by the Civil Works Administration and was completed in February 1934. Reinforced concrete and limestone were used in the construction, as well as bricks salvaged from Locust Dell Academy. The dedication ceremony was held during the 60th commencement program on May 24, 1934.
The amphitheater served as the central feature for campus wide events until 1969 when the Lurleen B. Wallace Fine Arts Center was constructed.
Today, the amphitheater continues to be one of the favorite spots on campus for students, both past and present.
Photo credits: UNA Archives and Special Collections and University Collection
