Magic Lantern Theatre
141 1st Street,
Smithton,
PA
15479
141 1st Street,
Smithton,
PA
15479
1 person
favorited this theater
The Magic Lantern Theatre is a 3,000 square foot block building reportedly dating back to the 1920’s, Although the generic design would seemingly contradict that date, local Smithton residents all agree TML was built in 1921. Situated less than 10 miles off Route 70 in Pennsylvania, Smithton has two claims to notoriety; The birthplace of Stoneys Beer which was founded by William B. “Stoney” Jones, who happen to be actress Shirley Jones grandfather & the Magic Lantern Theatre. IMDB claims Ms. Jones to be born in nearby Charloroi (Home of the COYLE movie house) but Smithton claims her as their native daughter.
The Magic Lantern Theatre was a family owned movie house that had approximately 200 wooden seats, a very small concession stand and according to the local barber ran 2 twin XLS 35mm arc projectors. The Magic Lantern Theatre ran 1st run movies & cartoons all the way up to the mid-1970’s then began to run adult films. By the mid-1980’s the Magic Lantern Theatre was dark & from that point all seats were removed & it became a Furniture warehouse. Presently it is empty & for sale.
Contributed by
Joe Hagan
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Recent comments (view all 1 comments)
Listed for $65,000. One lobby photo in the listing.
https://www.berkshirehathawayhs.com/commercial-for-sale/141-1st-St-Smithton-PA-15479-262187496