Monterey in Monterey County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
First Theater in California
— California Historical Landmark No. 136 —
Photographed By Craig Baker
1. First Theater in California Marker
California's First Theatre.
Monterey State Historic Park,
a California State Park.
For more information, go to our website: www.parks.ca.gov/mshp
Erected by Monterey State Historic Park. (Marker Number 136.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Entertainment • Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the California Historical Landmarks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1844.
Location. 36° 36.183′ N, 121° 53.729′ W. Marker is in Monterey, California, in Monterey County. Marker is at the intersection of Pacific Street and Scott Street, on the left when traveling north on Pacific Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Monterey CA 93940, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Perry House (within shouting distance of this marker); Duarte's Store (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Thomas Cole House (about 300 feet away); Earthquake Bell (about 300 feet away); Whaling Station (about 300 feet away); The Old Whaling Station (about 300 feet away); First Brick House
this page online
Regarding First Theater in California. In 1934 this building was designated California Historical Landmark No. 136 - First Theater in California. “This building was built about 1844 as a sailor's lodging house by Jack Swan. In 1848 it was commandeered by a group of mustered-out soldiers of Colonel Stevenson's regiment of New Yorkers looking for a place to put on plays and comedies. The theater afterward served as a whaling station, a lookout station having been added to the roof.”
Also see . . . Monterey State Historic Park. This website is featured on the marker. Excerpt:
In later years, the First Theatre was used as a lodging house for whalers but fell into disrepair after Swan's death in 1896. It was purchased in 1906 by California Historic Landmarks League and donated to the State of California. In 1937 and until recently, the Troupers of the Gold Coast staged the first melodramas since the 1850s.(Submitted on January 28, 2024.)
Due to structural deficiencies, California's First Theatre will be closed until further notice.
Photographed By Craig Baker
2. First Theater in California
Photographed By Craig Baker
3. First Theater in California and Marker
The marker is at far right.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 28, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 28, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 60 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 28, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.
