Skowhegan Opera House

The Skowhegan Opera House is a grand, century-old cultural treasure perched on the
second floor of the Skowhegan Municipal Building in Skowhegan, Maine.

Here’s a deep dive into its storied history:

Early Years (1909–1940s)
Built in 1909, the Opera House was designed by famed Maine architect John
Calvin Stevens as part of a new municipal building, replacing the earlier
Heselton Hotel and colonial tavern.  Its grand opening in February 1909 was a community celebration—over 700 attendees viewed the building, heard live orchestral music, and admired its
striking design.  With seating for 840–900, it served both civic and cultural roles—hosting political
speeches, silent films, Broadway touring acts, movies, minstrel shows, and
community events.

Golden Era (1910s–1960s)
The opera house welcomed national luminaries such as Booker T. Washington,
William Jennings Bryan, and William Howard Taft, highlighting its prestige.  During both World Wars it supported Red Cross drives and Liberty Bond campaigns—a community hub for civic action.
It also screened silent and early “talkie” films featuring stars like Mary Pickford,
Gloria Swanson, and serials like Flash Gordon and The Lone Ranger