Restore the Woodward

The Woodward was originally constructed by Dr. Ebenezer Woodward, an enterprising businessman in Mount Vernon. His original intent was to provide Mount Vernon with a performing arts venue which would not depend solely on the theater revenue to sustain the building. The genius of Mr. Woodward has resulted in the preservation of this profound and unique structure. The building has been continuously occupied by mercantile establishments on the first floor since its completion in 1851. The second floor was occupied by professional and commercial ventures from completion until the 1960’s. The third and fourth floor theater was occupied until the mid-1920’s, when competition from other local theatrical venues forced the Woodward Opera House theater to close its door. The third floor has seen occasional use as a gymnasium and storage area off and on since that time.

Research has shown that the Woodward is America’s Oldest Authentic 19th Century Theater still standing (there are no original pre-19th century theaters in America). Updated historical investigation has moved the first performance date in the Woodward Hall back to at least December 8-10th, 1851.

Efforts to bring the significance of the historical nature of the facility to the forefront began in the 1970’s. The Woodward was placed on the National Register for Historic Places and the eventual restoration became the dream of the community.

In 1995, KPAC - The Knox Partnership for Arts & Culture was created. Its mission was established to support the arts throughout Knox County, beginning with the restoration and operation of the Woodward as an arts facility. In 1996, the Woodward Development Corporation (WDC) was formed to be the eventual owner of the facility. WDC purchased the Woodward building in May of 1998 and the adjacent building for use as an annex in March of 2000. Both organizations applied for and subsequently achieved their IRS 501 (c) (3) tax exempt designation.

After acquisition, the Woodward Development Corp. began detailed historic and archeological research aimed at establishing the physical evolution of the structures to permit an authentic restoration process. KPAC began laying the ground work developing plans for the community arts as it relates to the Woodward facility.