|
Craigsville Drive-In Theatre
|
|
Craigsville WV
  |
| Record #25563 |
Opened: 1947
Closed: 1956
Demolished: Yes (date unknown)
|
Capacity:
Architect(s):
Architectural Style(s):
National Register:
Current Organ: none |
| Also Known As: |
Information for this tour was contributed by Darren Snow. Opened 9/14/47 by Arden A. and Minnie J. Richards. The screen tower was initially made of power poles with 2x4 crosspieces and a canvas screen; the canvas was later replaced by sheet metal (which proved too glare-prone) and then corrugated metal.
The concession stand shared a building with the ticket booth rather than the projectors, and a partially-underground cinderblock structure contained seats for walk-in patrons--making the Craigsville one of the first indoor/outdoor theatres.
Another innovation was the rain- and snow-blocking shelters that were built over some of the parking spaces. Frequent wind damage at this location inspired Richards to find a new location for his drive-in, but his next venture, the Bolair Drive-In in Webster County (c. 1950), was plagued by persistent fog.
In 1956, the Craigsville Drive-In moved to a new location.
Return to the top of this page or Return to the main page
Last featured 6/19/2005. Last edited 6/19/2005.
|
