HISTORY OF THE MAC

The Louis F. Tanner Family purchased the building from the federal government on September 13, 1975.  When this beautiful, 1913 Neo-classical building was purchased, the intentions of the Tanner Family were for the property to be developed and maintained as a cultural center for the perpetuation of the arts and history of the community, and a place for those efforts to be displayed, taught, and practiced.

The creation of such a center was a long-held dream of Mabel DeVries Tanner.  Mrs. Tanner was born in New York City on August 2, 1898.   She came to Morgantown with her husband Louis immediately after their marriage in 1924.   Mrs. Tanner was active in the creative arts and founded the Morgantown Players.  She was a critic of the arts for the local newspapers for forty years.  She died in 1974. Mabel Tanner had envisioned a facility complete with theatre, art gallery, exhibit area, classrooms and workshop space, that would house the performing and creative arts and provide a central point from which to foster the arts and encourage their growth.

In June,1976 the Monongalia County Arts Association, Inc. was chartered (dba Monongalia Arts Center).   In June, 1978, after two years of planning and development, the MAC opened its doors to the public.  The Benedum Gallery was established in 1979 when funding was received from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.  Also in 1979, the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In January, 1981 the Mabel DeVries Tanner Theatre was dedicated and is home to community theatre featuring the MACplayers.

MAC’s Mission:  To provide a home for the arts where the work of visual and performing artists is showcased and interest in the arts is nurtured through ongoing educational programs.