In 1996 Smith Memorial Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places in Illinois.

[5] The building was designed in the Beaux-Arts architecture style by James McLaren White, a professor at the University, and George E. Wright.

[2] According to the Daily Illini newspaper, the groundbreaking ceremony for Smith Memorial Hall took place on Tuesday October 24, 1916.

[6] Captain Thomas J. Smith and President James of the University used a spade to break the ground at the site of construction.

[6] Captain Smith also gave a speech to the crowd of spectators, faculty, students, trustees, and Glee Club members.

From that time I have lived an economical life, to the end that I might be able to contribute to the erection of such a building as would be a credit alike to the memory of the departed loved one and to the University."

[2] Smith Memorial Hall also boasts a 900-person recital room lined with detailed mahogany woodwork throughout.