THE BUILDING 508 Park was built in a zig-zag modern art deco style by Warner Brothers and completed in 1930. Built as a regional film exchange, it contained sixteen film vaults and two film inspection areas on the ground floor. The painted signage you see on top of the building is on the side of a small theater on the roof. 508 Park is part of what was known as Dallas’ “film row” where several film exchanges were concentrated along with other businesses that served theater owners. THE MUSIC In 1930 Warner Brothers purchased Brunswick Records and moved the regional offices to the 3rd floor of 508 Park. In 1931 this business was sold to the American Record Corporation. The regional manager, Don Law, along with his boss Art Satherley, produced 843 recordings at 508 Park between 1935 and 1939. Later, Don and Art would each head Columbia Records country music division. Notable music moments: 1935 - Gene Autry records the hit “Nobody’s Darlin’ but Mine” 1935 - The first recordings of Bob Wills with the Texas Playboys 1937 - Robert Johnson 1938 - The Stamps Quartet 1938 - Bob Wills records “San Antonio Rose” 1939 - Lolo Cavazos In 2004, Eric Clapton, filmed part of his “Sessions for Robert J” DVD on the 3rd floor of the 508 Park building. THE FUTURE The building is being renovated with historical exhibits open to the public, an art studio for the homeless, a recording studio and event spaces. We hope to have the building open to the public with exhibits and tours in 2018 after we complete fund raising and construction.
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