The Armory | Somerville

The Armory, located at 191 Highland Avenue in Somerville, Massachusetts, is a striking historic building that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and community arts center. Originally constructed in 1903 as a military facility for the Somerville Light Infantry, this fortress-like structure reflects early 20th-century military architecture, characterized by its castle-style turrets, robust brick and stone construction, and imposing presence that anchors the neighborhood.

Historical Background

For much of the 20th century, The Armory served as a National Guard armory and training facility. It was a hub for military preparedness, housing infantry units and supporting local defense efforts through both World Wars and beyond. After decades of active use, the building fell into disuse and vacancy in the late 20th century, raising concerns about its preservation given its architectural and historical significance.

In 2021, recognizing both its heritage value and community potential, the City of Somerville acquired The Armory through eminent domain with a commitment to retain and expand its function as a public arts venue. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment in the building’s revival and repurposing as a cornerstone of Somerville’s thriving cultural landscape.

Architecture and Facilities

The Armory’s design draws heavily on medieval European military architecture, with features such as crenellated parapets, arched entryways, and battlement-style towers giving it a fortress-like aesthetic. These distinctive architectural elements not only emphasize the building’s original defensive purpose but now contribute to its unique identity as an arts venue.

Inside, The Armory encompasses approximately 50,000 square feet of versatile space, including:

The Performance Hall: A grand, open area measuring about 5,600 square feet with a mezzanine level. This hall is designed to host a wide variety of events, from theater productions, concerts, and dance performances to large community gatherings. It can accommodate nearly 400 attendees, with flexible seating and staging arrangements.

ROOTED Café: Located on the ground floor, this welcoming café functions both as a casual gathering spot and an event space, hosting smaller performances, readings, workshops, and community meetings. It supports the creative ecosystem by providing a social hub that complements the larger performance activities.

Studio and Workshop Spaces: Various rooms and studios throughout the building are dedicated to artist residencies, rehearsals, visual arts creation, and educational programming. These spaces support a broad spectrum of artistic disciplines and community participation.

Cultural Role and Programming

Since its reopening as an arts center in 2008, The Armory-often branded as Arts at the Armory-has become a vital cultural institution in Somerville. It hosts more than 750 events annually, ranging from live music, theater, dance, film screenings, and art exhibitions to community markets and educational workshops. Signature initiatives include:

Spotlight Series: A curated program showcasing local and regional performing artists in diverse genres.

Performance Opportunity Program (POP): Designed to nurture emerging artists and groups by providing them access to professional-quality venues and audiences.

Somerville Winter Farmers Market: A seasonal event connecting local producers, artisans, and residents, held within the Armory’s spaces.

These programs highlight The Armory’s commitment to fostering artistic innovation, community engagement, and inclusive access to the arts.

Recent and Future Developments

In 2025, the City of Somerville released a comprehensive Master Plan for The Armory that focuses on sustainable growth, enhanced accessibility, and expanded programming. The plan envisions The Armory as a flexible, year-round community arts center, supporting a broad range of cultural, educational, and social uses.

Key components include:

Upgrading facilities to meet modern accessibility standards and audience needs.

Expanding artist studios and rehearsal spaces to support a growing creative community.

Increasing public engagement through workshops, festivals, and community-led events.

Preserving and restoring historic architectural features while incorporating contemporary design elements to improve functionality.

Location and Accessibility

The Armory is situated in a dynamic area of Somerville, easily reachable by public transportation and within walking distance of popular neighborhoods like Davis Square.

Public Transit: MBTA bus routes provide direct service nearby, with Davis Square station on the Red Line located approximately one mile away.

Walkability and Parking: The neighborhood offers pedestrian-friendly streets and limited parking options, encouraging visitors to use transit, bike, or walk.

Summary

The Armory stands as a landmark that bridges Somerville’s rich military history with its vibrant contemporary arts scene. Its dramatic architecture and historic significance provide a powerful backdrop for a wide variety of cultural activities. As a public arts center, it nurtures local talent, serves as a gathering place for community expression, and contributes significantly to the city’s identity as a hub for creativity and cultural diversity. Through ongoing investments and community collaboration, The Armory continues to evolve as a dynamic venue that celebrates both heritage and innovation.