Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the unit block of North Main on the east side.
In the early 1900s, Hutchinson had several movie theatres, such as the Royal, Deluxe/Strand, Liberty and Iris.
One of the earliest was the Midland Theatre. Built and opened about 1920 at 8-10 N. Main St., the Midland was managed by Edd J. Haas. The first photo shows the theatre in all its glory about 1930.
The second photo shows the theatre even earlier, about 1923, during an Armistice Parade.
It started showing vaudeville acts as well as cinema (silent movies). In 1926, talking pictures came about and vaudeville fell out of popularity. The Midland Theatre eventually closed in 1957. The third photo shows the last of the theatre and the entire quarter-block, including Montgomery Ward, the Toy Center and Spangler's, before demolition.
In 1964, this entire area was razed to make way for a new Woolworth's building.
In 1984, Anthony's Department Store took over the space.
By 2012, the Hayes family owned the building. The fourth photo shows the Hayes Home Furnishings business in that location.
Later it became the Main Street Events Center.
The fifth photo shows the 8-10 N. Main property today as the Furniture & Mattress Clearance Center, owned by Kevin and Susan Rule.
To purchase a photo print, contact: [email protected].
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum