Fondren Library Center

"We don't sell tickets to movies. We sell tickets to theatres..."
- Marcus Loew, Theatre and Movie Mogul

Once upon a time, in the not so distant past, there were places where we could become kings and hold court in exotic palaces of fantasy. We traveled to faraway lands, and sat amidst the celestial -- stars glimmering high above. We could, for at least two hours, escape the woes of poverty, war or whatever else ailed us -- our eyes transfixed upon a silver screen -- while surrounded by ultimate beauty and luxury -- all for about a dime.

This exhibit focuses on photos and memorabilia from the golden age of movie theatres. It centers on Dallas, but also includes other notable U.S.theatres. The collection began soon after my early childhood visits to the downtown theatres, and the stories my grandmother told about the glory days on Elm Street.

Photograph from the collection of the Texas/Dallas History and Archives Division, Dallas Public Library