CC McCray City Auditorium

The C.C. McCray City Auditorium stands as a one-of-a-kind historic structure in
Waycross and is a hub for events of all kinds in the city’s center.

The auditorium, now named for Waycross’ first African American mayor, was built in 1937 with assistance from the Waycross Lions Club and money from the Works Progress Administration. During its lifetime, the likes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Ella Fitzgerald, Otis Redding and James Brown have performed on its stage. Waycross’ native son, Gram Parsons, also played there. Parsons’ impacts on rock and roll history have been well documented after he is said to have heavily influenced the likes of The Rolling Stones and The Eagles.

Over time, the building was used less and less, and fell into disrepair. It served as temporary offices when City Hall was being renovated and for a time included basketball goals and bleachers. Faced in 2008 with the decision to tear it down or renovate it, the people of Ware County voted in favor of a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or SPLOST, and the 15,000-square-foot facility was reborn.

Today, the auditorium is on the National Register of Historic Places and provides a place for Waycross to gather to celebrate, learn, or continue the rich musical history and contributions of Waycross with a concert. Whether you’re booking a wedding, attending a father-daughter dance, catching an up-and-coming performer, or attending a community meeting, spend much time in Waycross and you are sure to spend some time at the C.C. McCray City Auditorium.

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