Grand Ole Opry House Added to National Register of Historic Places

One of country music's greatest landmarks has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Since it opened its doors on March 16, 1974, the Grand Ole Opry House has been the home of the Opry -- and country music in general -- and it is now on the National Register of Historic Places, the U.S.'s official list recognizing places worthy of preservation, due to its role in country music and its impact on pop culture and the entertainment industry.

The Grand Ole Opry House was constructed specifically for use by the Grand Ole Opry; it is the Opry's sixth, and longest, home, as well as the only building built specifically for the Opry. The Opry House's opening night performance was attended by President Nixon and his wife and ended up being a standing-room-only event. In the last 41 years, the Grand Ole Opry House has played host to awards shows, television tapings, performers from every musical genre, presidents and foreign dignitaries.

The Grand Ole Opry House is one six Tennessee sites that were recently added to the National Register of Historic Places. The venue was nominated for a spot on the list by Dr. Carroll Van West, who serves as Tennessee State Historian and the director for the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University, located outside of Nashville.

The distinction comes just in time for the Opry to celebrate its 90th anniversary with a nine-month long celebration, which kicks off March 24. A Birthday Bash Weekend is scheduled for Oct. 2-3.

Another Nashville landmark, the famed Music Row, was recently named a national treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

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