The past
When the historic Lincoln Theatre was built, by Massillon Grocer John McLain, on the brand new Lincoln Highway it was the most expensive theater ever built in Ohio. When it opened for its first silent film showing on November 23, 1915, Civil War veterans sat in the seats with young men soon to be called to World War I. The women who sat beside them didn’t have the right to vote. The theatre has survived 16 Presidencies, 7 major wars and more economic downturns then we can count. 8 movie theaters existed in Massillon when technology brought sound to th e movie industry. Only the Lincoln survived that transition.
Through the years
Over the years, the theatre was owned by the Schine Brother and in the 1950’s Warner Brothers owned the theatre. Warner Brothers installed a new modern marquee, replacing the older style marquee. They also removed the 1915 theatre seats on the main floor with modern 1950 seats. For a time, the theatre was the home to The Ten Star Players, a local acting initiative. However they were unable to meet the expenses and maintenance the building required. The building was given up for lost and the wrecking ball was on its way. In 1982, the Massillon Lions Club heard the call of History and saved this Stark County Landmark from becoming a parking lot. They restored and have maintained the facility.
Recent challenges
In 2007 the Lincoln was again challenged when a multi-plex moved into town. We were no longer permitted to show first run films. This could have been a theater closing event for the now elderly theatre. Instead, we looked to our past for our future. Classic films returned to our screen in 2008 and have remained our bread and butter. We also added genuine butter to our popcorn.
Technology again threatened the Lincoln with the advent of the Digital Age. Massillon rose to the challenge and the Massillon Rotary Club met the challenged and raised the funds from local individuals, corporations and foundation in just 5 months. Digital film will join the long history of offering the best product Hollywood can provide. A mix of classic and current films will continue to bring the audience in. Live shows became a regular feature in 2012.
A Digital Marquee was installed by the Lions Club in 2006 and its bright pictures and colors emphasize the live and activity that go on inside the building.
Some very special guests
In 2011 a group of very happy ghosts made their presence known as ghost hunters poured in to photograph and record their faces and voices. It is fair to say that we entertain the living and the dead.
Where we find ourselves today
In 2014, the theater will become “A Living Museum.” With plans for fundraising to give the theatre the face lift every girl turning 100 needs, her future is bright and her bright lights will continue to Schine for generations yet unborn.
The memories the Lincoln has created for both the young and the old are priceless. Please help us make sure that tomorrows children can enjoy and learn from the “Living Museum” that is Massillon’s Lincoln Theatre, a genuine National treasure.