Although
there is precious little history on paper or in photos regarding the
Grand Theatre, we do know that it was originally built as a Vaudeville
Showhouse in 1902. In later years the showhouse was converted to a
movie theatre that began showing silent movies, then "talkies", and
lastly the big screen movies we know today. The Grand Theatre was known
locally as the "Show", with different features each week as advertised
in the poster windows located outside.
The façade was quite
elaborate with a large canopy under a tall vertical sign displaying the
word "GRAND". The Art Deco design around the main entry doors has small
ceramic plates with colorful designs, complimenting the unusual
brickwork. Once inside, a small lobby with original tile floor, ticket
window, and concession stand remain intact. The auditorium once had
wrought iron art deco seats on two levels and a large curtain on either
side for acoustics. A small projection room sits at the top of the
upper seats.
In the late 70's the
theatre closed for several years and was then occupied by Calvary
Temple Church. The Calvary Temple occupancy was a nationwide trend to
buy old theatres and repurpose them for other uses.In
1997 the Kolodziej family purchased the property and have painstakingly
restored it back to its original use- a venue for live entertainment,
film, and community events.