Smalley's Theatre

mcobrien on August 14, 2025 at 12:11 pm

This building was my home for all of the 1960’s.

We had a small two bedroom apartment in the back. The concession area was still there with an office to the left of the entry. The projection booth had a few items still in there became a fort for my brother and I. The seating area was mostly wide open where we could ride bikes. We had a half court basket ball area on one side and a full swing set on the other … all inside mind you. Was a great place to play when it was raining outside.

In the mid 1950’s my father had joined the then owner, Henry Elbrecht, and another electrician, Frank Desposito, to form Alva Electric Corporation and operate a Frigidaire franchise and electrical services out of that building. Unfortunately Henry and Frank both passed away before the dream was realized.

When my father could no longer afford to maintain the building it was sold to a local Oldsmobile dealer, Lenny Fancher. Ultimately ended up in the hands of the Town of Windham, NY where it was converted to the Town Hall as it stands today. I love visiting the building from time to time to think back on what was.