Historic Landmarks Commission unanimously designates Doris Miller Auditorium

The Historic Landmarks Commission voted unanimously July 1 to designate the Doris Miller Auditorium (2300 Rosewood Avenue, Rosewood Park) as a local historic landmark for architecture, community value and historical associations.

Staff described the auditorium’s 1944 construction as a USO‑era facility that served returning Black service members and later hosted concerts, dances and civic events; staff recommended designation for architecture, community value and historic associations and noted the building retains good integrity despite later systems upgrades.

Vice Chair Roxanne Evans said the nomination had been a long time coming and praised staff for moving it forward. Commissioner Pleasant Wright, whose district includes the facility, described its continued community role — including free youth programs such as Notes for Notes — and urged designation to preserve access to the facility’s programs for local children.

Evans moved to grant historic designation on the basis of architecture, historic association and community value; Commissioner Pleasant Wright seconded. The commission voted unanimously to approve the motion.

Staff said the designation will be forwarded for additional review as required by city procedures. No formal vote tallies were recorded in the transcript beyond Commissioners raising hands to indicate unanimous support.