Smile Politely

The Assembly Hall opened its doors on this day in 1963

Julie McClure

The Assembly Hall (now State Farm Center) opened to the public on March 2nd, 1963. The Illini Men’s Basketball team played their first game there on March 4th. Here are a couple of photos, from the Champaign Urbana History Facebook group.

A black and white photo of the inside of a large, circular arena. There is a concrete floor with a stage, and there are multiple levels of seats surrouding it. Photo from Champaign Urbana History Faceboo page.Photo from Champaign Urbana History Facebook page.

A black and white photo. A man in a suit is holding a trombone, and standing in front of a small stage. There are several other musicians on the stage. In the foreground there are a few microphones on stands. Photo from Champaign Urbana History Facebook page.Photo from Champaign Urbana History Facebook page.

Top photo from Champaign Urbana History Facebook page.

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