What’s one of the first things you picture when you think of Nashville, Tennessee? In addition to historic landmarks like the Parthenon and Pedestrian Bridge, you might picture a colorful letterpress poster advertising an upcoming show. These aesthetically pleasing posters are an important part of American history, and the place where it all began is located right here in Music City, U.S.A.! Here is everything you need to know about Hatch Show Print in Nashville: The home of American music’s iconic letterpress poster.
Before planning a trip to Hatch Show Print in Nashville, consider all of the other great attractions the city offers. Quench your thirst at a local craft brewery, find something great at The Nashville Flea Market, or simply relax in your Playlist Properties vacation rental. However you want to spend your time, our free Nashville Travel Guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip! Request access to the guide today and we’ll send you a complete list of the area’s best things to do.
Your Ultimate Guide to Hatch Show Print in Nashville
What Is Hatch Show Print?
Hatch Show Print is a working letterpress print shop that has been around since 1879. Since then, the independent shop has produced unique designs for major artists like Louis Armstrong, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Jack White, and many others. These vibrant and eye-catching posters aren’t made just for musical artists, though! Local businesses and celebrity lectures have been known to boast Hatch Show Print designs, as well. The diversity of poster uses demonstrates the print shop’s main purpose: To create memorable designs and to commemorate America’s evolving cultural identity.
What to Know Before Visiting
One of the most popular things to do in Nashville is to arrange for a Hatch Show Print tour. The shop offers individual and group rates (for 15 or more visitors). Each tour allows you to listen to the presses crank, see some of the original posters, and learn more about the history of this thriving business. You can even make a keepsake poster for yourself!
The shop also holds plenty of public events that you can attend when in town. Among the most common are monthly block parties, art crawls, and hands-on workshops for kids. Check the events calendar for more information! You can find the main Hatch Show Print facility in the 5th Avenue lobby of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum building. Be sure to check the hours and locations of each department before planning a visit.
History of Hatch Show Print in Nashville
Hatch Show Print has a fascinating history! The shop began in Prescott, Wisconsin, but the Hatch family later relocated it to Music City. Ever since their first print job — a handbill announcing the appearance of Rev. Henry Ward Beecher (brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe) — the Hatch family got “the look” of their posters right. Whether it was for a circus, vaudeville act, carnival, or concert, an advertisement from Hatch Show Print filled seats. Today, over 100 years later, the shop functions as a cultural icon from which creative print advertisements still flow.
The Hatch Show Print Gallery at the Ryman
Want to view an extensive collection of historic Hatch Show Print posters? In addition to visiting the shop itself, set aside a few minutes to check out the famous Hatch Show Print Gallery at the Ryman Auditorium! This collection features posters that have been used to advertise shows at the Ryman through the years. This second-floor exhibit is a great place to learn all about these two landmarks’ shared history!
Stay Near Hatch Show Print in Nashville!
Do you love the idea of seeing the iconic print shop that defined the look of Nashville’s entertainment scene, then retiring somewhere cozy and chic? Stay in a private Playlist Properties vacation rental near everything Downtown Nashville has to offer! Plus, all of our rentals feature premium amenities like gourmet kitchens, stunning city views, and comfortable furnishings. You won’t find that in a hotel!