The historical Memorial Gymnasium (or Mem Gym) opened in 1924 and is the primary gym on central Grounds. As the home of the varsity volleyball and wrestling teams, Memorial Gymnasium has a unique feel from our other facilities. In addition to a comprehensive array of fitness equipment, Mem Gym features an indoor wooden running track, combative/boxing room, and support to the numerous outdoor fields and courts in the area. 

The University's Architectural Commission, with supervising architect Fiske Kimball, designed the building in 1921-24 as a memorial to the 2,700 University students and alumni killed in World War I. To fund the project, the state granted $50,000, President Alderman raised $100,000, and students contributed $150,000. Upon its completion, it was the third largest gymnasium in the eastern United States. Mem Gym was used for registration, concerts and basketball competitions until University Hall opened in 1965. In 1940 President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave a historic speech at Memorial Gymnasium denouncing Italy's declaration of war on France. This historic structure was granted landmark status in the Virginia Landmarks Registry in 2004.