The Gem Theater opened in Tillamook, Oregon on April 15th, 1909. The newspaper in Tillamook records the theater as initially offering motion pictures1. This was seemingly its only offering until a stage was built in December of the same year, by which time the theater had invited a local dramatic-arts company to host plays there2, as well as hosting high school plays.3 By 1915, the programming is confirmed to have expanded to Vaudeville performance, although it's unclear how far back that went at the Gem.4 It seems that although built as a movie theater, stage plays ended up being an important part of the Gem's programming, hosting many civic engagements from churches, schools, and clubs. This notable altruism also manifested in donating ticket proceeds to the red cross, and receiving accolades from the local paper for their "interest and willingness to help out".5
The Gem ran for 14 years, shutting down in 1923 with the closing remarks as follows:
"This week's program marks the passing of the 'Gem Theater.' The 'Gem' has been a good ship, she has sailed the seas well, but progress demands improvement. Next week we will open our new and modern Coliseum Theater. Watch for the 'flash' of the big new electric sign on 2nd Avenue."6
This implies that its history is that of a successful theater business that outgrew its location, as shown by the continued operation of the Coliseum to this day.
