The Ryman Auditorium was known as the Grand Old Opry House, which originally was the home to the Union Gospel Tabernacle, and later home to the famous Grand Ole Opry. It was built in 1892 by Thomas Ryman to hold revival meetings, and where Sam Jones, a celebrated revivalist, entertained visitors with his amazing wit and great story-telling. This building is considered a national landmark. There are still many events that occur at the Ryman Auditorium that visitors can enjoy year around, such as: 1. This venue is home to numerous musical performances throughout the year that includes country, western, bluegrass, jazz, and many other varieties of music. 2. The auditorium also houses a number of charitable performances throughout the year in which the proceeds are raised to benefit a wide variety of charities. 3. Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman is a very popular place for locals and tourists to hang out on Thursday nights during the months of June and July. Enjoy the Bluegrass music at the same place where Bluegrass music was first introduced over 60 decades ago. Many Grand Ole Opry stars were launched and became legendary on this stage, and later inducted into the Grand Ole Opry Hall of Fame. 4. Various musicals and plays are performed on the stage to sell-out audiences. 5. The Music Saves Mountains concert brings in many talented musicians. The Ryman Auditorium has seen musical legends perform on her stage, and is a treat for old and young alike to enjoy a variety of musical events.