Dahlberg Hall

Opened in 1982 as Alumni Hall, Dahlberg Hall at 30 Courtland St. SE stands as a testament to Georgia State University’s ever-evolving presence in downtown Atlanta. Dahlberg Hall wasn’t always the marble-clad structure you see today. Originally the Atlanta Municipal Auditorium, it boasted a red brick facade. A fire in 1940 necessitated a redesign, giving it the distinguished marble exterior we now admire. This building has witnessed a lot of history. It was here, in the Taft Dining Hall, that President William Howard Taft enjoyed a possum dinner during a pre-inaugural visit in 1909. The auditorium’s official dedication followed shortly after, marked by the inaugural Atlanta Music Festival. For decades, the hall resonated with the sounds of concerts, theatrical productions, operas, and even professional wrestling matches. It was also the venue for the Southern Conference men’s basketball tournaments from 1922 to 1932. And let’s not forget the glamorous Gone with the Wind Ball held here in 1939, celebrating the film’s premiere. In 1979, the building embarked on a new chapter when it was sold to Georgia State University. It served as Alumni Hall until 2010, when it was renamed Dahlberg Hall to honor alumnus A.W. “Bill” Dahlberg. Now home to university administration, the Alumni Association, and the Welcome Center, Dahlberg Hall continues to play a vital role in the university’s life. But Dahlberg Hall’s story doesn’t end there. Movie buffs might recognize it as the disguised US Post Office in the 2017 film *Baby Driver*. While the film’s portrayal might not reflect the hall’s true academic function, it offers a glimpse into its versatility and its contribution to Atlanta’s vibrant film scene. From hosting presidential dinners and basketball tournaments to serving as a backdrop for Hollywood heists, Dahlberg Hall’s journey reflects the dynamic spirit of Atlanta and Georgia State University.