A Stage for the Ages
On this day in history, March 20, 1900, the Calumet Theatre opened its doors to an eager audience. The first show was a touring Broadway production of The Highwayman by Reginald DeKoven and Harry B. Smith. It was a momentous occasion for the village of Calumet, a community built on copper and ambition. As the first municipally built theater in the country, the Calumet Theatre was more than just a venue; it was a declaration that this mining town could rival the cultural sophistication of major cities.
At the turn of the 20th century, Calumet was booming. With a population of around 4,000 and over 30,000 people within walking distance, the village was a hub of industry and innovation. The Calumet and Hecla Mining Company had transformed the region into the center of North America’s copper industry, and the town’s prosperity was evident. By 1898, the community had the means and desire for a grand opera house. The plans for the Calumet Theatre were set in motion. Local architect Charles K. Shand was tasked with designing the building. Chicago interior designer William Eckert created an opulent setting with a crimson, gold, and ivory color scheme that wowed visitors.
Finest in the Midwest
The theatre quickly earned a reputation as one of the finest in the Midwest. At a time when gaslights were still common, its electric lighting was a marvel. The curved balcony, gilded box seats, intricate proscenium arch, and elegant gallery all contributed to an atmosphere of grandeur. It wasn’t long before the biggest names in American theatre graced its stage. From the legendary Sarah Bernhardt and John Philip Sousa to Hollywood greats like Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. and Lon Chaney, Sr., the Calumet Theatre hosted an impressive roster of performers.
Over the decades, the theatre has remained a vital part of the community. While Calumet’s fortunes have changed with the decline of copper mining, the Calumet Theatre has endured as a beloved cultural institution. Today, it stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and its once-glittering past as an arts and entertainment destination.
So, as we celebrate this anniversary, let’s take a moment to appreciate the grandeur and legacy of the Calumet Theatre. A stage that once dazzled a booming mining town continues to shine over a century later.
