Wyandotte in Wayne County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Marx Opera House
Wyandotte, Michigan
— The Museum in the Streets —
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 13, 2021
1. Marx Opera House Marker
In 1886, through the efforts of the Marx Family estate, the first building for the exclusive use of theatrical entertainment was erected in Wyandotte. Named the Marx Opera House, it was located on Biddle Avenue between Maple and Sycamore streets. This elaborate and luxurious building seated up to 600 occupants on the main floor and balcony.
Destroyed in 1908 by a disastrous fire, it was replaced by a new structure at the northwest corner of Biddle and Sycamore. It became highly popular for troupes of entertainers as an additional stop between Detroit and Toledo engagements.
Managed by Mr. Frank Marx, a strict code of behavior was maintained. A codified set of rules were printed on the alls and became knows as "Heavens First Law."
As movies gained popularity, business decreased for live entertainment and the building became the first location of the Rialto movie theater.
In 1931, it was decided to raze the building to make room for the S. S. Kresge Co. and in 2005, Stroh's Ice Cream Parlour relocated here.
Erected by The Wyandotte Historical Society. (Marker Number 9.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Entertainment • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1886.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Milkins Jewelers (a few steps from this marker); The Nine Lives of 3225 Biddle Avenue (within shouting distance of this marker); Neisner's Dime Store (within shouting distance of this marker); Biddle North of Eureka (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Triangular Corner (about 500 feet away); Wyandott Totem Pole (about 500 feet away); Melody Brothers Building (about 600 feet away); First Fire Station (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Wyandotte.
More about this marker. This is the 9th marker in a series of 16 on the historical walking tour of Wyandotte.
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 13, 2021
2. Marx Opera House Marker
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, December 13, 2021
3. Marx Opera House Marker
Inset photo (bottom) S.S. Kresge Dime Store built in 1931. Milkins Jewelers in background (Marker #8 of the tour).
Photographed By J.T. Lambrou, November 10, 2021
4. The Museum in the Streets Walking Tour Panel
Credits. This page was last revised on January 8, 2022. It was originally submitted on January 1, 2022, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. This page has been viewed 136 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on January 1, 2022, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
