Orpheum Theatre Building
(Block 45; Lot 24)
— Historical Walking Tour of Whitefish, Montana —
History was made on the night of June, 13, 1916 when the Orpheum Theatre opened on this site. This building was purchased by Lloyd J. Sissel and converted into what the press called "one of the classiest playhouses in the Northwest". He remodeled the building by putting in a new front, an inclined floor and "up-to-date equipment".
The first silent film shown was "The Soul Market" and starred the gifted emotional actress, Mme Petrova. The film dealt with live along the Great White Way and behind the scenes of a big Broadway theatre. It was followed by a Sidney Drew comedy and reportedly was received enthusiastically by the Whitefish audience. The 1916 ticket price was 25 cents.
The Orpheum was a gathering place for Whitefish residents for many years as was its neighbor the Lake Theatre, opened later by Lloyd Sissel in the building immediately adjacent to the Orpheum.
Erected by Stumptown Historical Society and Whitefish Community Foundation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Entertainment • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical date for this entry is June 13, 1916.
Location. 48° 24.629′ N, 114° 20.197′ W. Marker is in Whitefish, Montana, in Flathead County. Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Former Site of 1st National Bank Building (a few steps from this marker); Robinson Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Haines Drugs (within shouting distance of this marker); Pastime Pool Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); Hori Cafe Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Palace Bar (within shouting distance of this marker); First Presbyterian Church of Whitefish (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Casey's Bar (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Whitefish.
Credits. This page was last revised on December 20, 2020. It was originally submitted on November 14, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 160 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 14, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
