Martha Hamblin Hall
CSMA’s downtown Ithaca home is a vibrant hub full of historic detail and charm. Originally designed in 1928 by prominent Ithaca-based architect, Arthur Norman Gibb (Cornell, B.Arch, 1890) as the Fraternal Order of Eagles’ lodge, the building retains much of its unique historical aesthetic despite reinventing itself through the decades as city offices, a bowling alley, a dance studio, a paper store, a music club, and even a police shooting gallery. Martha Hamblin Hall, our spectacular 2,700-square-foot, third floor performance space with a two-story ceiling, original ornate chandeliers, preserved oak paneling, high arched windows, banquette seating and even a Steinway grand piano. An architectural gem unlike any other venue in Tompkins County! The hall’s unique character, size, versatility and optimal location makes it ideal for your next event.
You may now reserve the space to hold meetings, rehearsals, performances, video shoots, weddings or other types of celebrations for up to 250 guests!
Who is Martha Hamblin?
Martha Hamblin, a research scientist at Cornell University and longtime arts enthusiast, learned about CSMA’s historic hall and its urgent need for restoration during the spring of 2014. Sadly, she had just been diagnosed with a terminal disease and wanted to make a legacy gift that positively impacted the beloved community she had called home since 1981. As an avid fiddle player, choir singer and folk music dancer, Martha connected with CSMA’s mission and likewise envisioned a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to congregate and connect over a shared love for the arts. It has been our honor to have been the recipients of her generosity, which has been instrumental in reviving this unique gathering hub for generations to come.