Known Years of Operation

Apr 10, 1908 - Apr 10, 1915

Number of Seats

Unknown

Owner/Managers

B. R. Keller

Additional Facts

  • The theater did not just host moving pictures. They also hosted bands, singers, and many other events to bring in the crowds.
  • Orpheum Theater hosted a meeting for the State secretary of the Y.M.C.A. for Oregon and Idaho, I.B. Rhodes.
  • At the beginning of the theater's existance, they hosted a baby contest where one ticket purchase would be one vote and the baby that won would recieve a gold chain and locket.

The Orpheum Theater has a rough timeline of being around from 1908 too 1915. During its time, the theater not only was a place to watch moving pictures but hosted other musical acts and even community meetings. The price of admission was always ranging from 5 cents too 25 cents which was determined by who was coming to Coos Bay to take the stage. 

The theater was owned and operated by B.R. Keller. He came to Coos Bay as a commercial traveler who frequented the West Coast and bought the theater. 

The World, Mar 23, 1912, p 50. Newspapers.com
The World, Mar 23, 1912, p 50. Newspapers.com

 

The World, Mar 23, 1912, p 50. Newspapers.com

 

 

attendance record
The World, Feb 14, 1912, p 4. Newspapers.com

The theater was a popular space that was filled and attracted many locals. It broke the attendance record in Coos Bay for any theatrical performance in the town, which shows how popular this place was to the community. A feature film broke the record and used it as a point to advertise that it was one of many on a long list of recent "feature photo plays."

Works Cited

  • Gallery Images

    1)

    2) The World, Aug 1, 1912, p 2. Newspapers.com.

    3) The World, May 30, 1908 p 5. Newspapers.com.

    4) The World, May 9, 1908, p 5. Newspapers.com.

    5) The World, May 23, 1908, p 2. Newspapers.com.

    6) The Coos Bay times, Feb 4, 1913, p 2. Historic Oregon Newspapers.

    7) The World, Jul 16, 1910, p 5. Newspapers.com.