The Schine Milford did not close until 1972—I know because I was the manager at the time. The “last picture show” was Straw Dogs, with Dustin Hoffman, and was very poorly attended. At the time, the theatre was being leased by Countrywide Theatres.
The theatre has a curious history. Built in 1948, at a time when scores of theatres were closing nationwide, it replaced the New Plaza Theatre which burned in 1946. With 3 balconies and 1,800 seats, the building always seemed too large for a town of about 5,000 (at the time). It was the largest movie house on the Eastern Shore.
I would very much like to research the history and Architect of this very unusual Late Movie Palace, and would appreciate any help or information.
PS- The Building has been a church for 30 years, and to my knowlege is NOT being renovated as a performing Arts center. While it is still largely intact, it has been slowly crumbling for some time now.
The Schine Milford did not close until 1972—I know because I was the manager at the time. The “last picture show” was Straw Dogs, with Dustin Hoffman, and was very poorly attended. At the time, the theatre was being leased by Countrywide Theatres.
The theatre has a curious history. Built in 1948, at a time when scores of theatres were closing nationwide, it replaced the New Plaza Theatre which burned in 1946. With 3 balconies and 1,800 seats, the building always seemed too large for a town of about 5,000 (at the time). It was the largest movie house on the Eastern Shore.
I would very much like to research the history and Architect of this very unusual Late Movie Palace, and would appreciate any help or information.
PS- The Building has been a church for 30 years, and to my knowlege is NOT being renovated as a performing Arts center. While it is still largely intact, it has been slowly crumbling for some time now.