History

The Lincoln Theatre, a restored 1926 historic vaudeville & silent movie house in downtown Mount Vernon, presents a year-round schedule of concerts, current and classic films, and community events. The theatre works with local school districts, hosting school performances and workshops by performing artists on tour, as well as annual concerts by secondary school bands. The theatre hosts concerts by the local youth symphony, presents community-sponsored children’s theatre productions, as well as serving as a venue for fund-raising events by local service organizations. The Lincoln Theatre Center Foundation, founded in 1987, is a registered non-profit organization supported by over 2000 members from Skagit and adjoining counties.

IN 1926:

* Cost of Building: $100,000
* Cost of Organ: $22,500
* Cost of Furnishings & Equipment: $32,500
* Weekly Payroll: $160

A 1926 Showplace

When the Lincoln Theatre was built, it was hailed for its originality and beauty. The Argus reported on May 13, 1926, "Nothing like it has ever been constructed before...the theatrical world is sitting back astounded." The Lincoln is what's called a period theater, which were in vogue around the time it was built. Some theaters built in the twenties had an Egyptian motif; one Seattle theater had a Chinese motif, but the Lincoln was a little different for the Northwest; it had a Spanish motif. Manager Edwin Halberg ignored the pleas of his friends that he follow the crowd and make it Egyptian. He foresaw a time when movie fans would tire of such a motif. He personally designed the luxurious carpet, the decorative effect on the walls, the hangings and draperies, and the lighting effects. The primary colors were blue, yellow, and red. The foyer was lighted with quaint, wrought-iron patterns of Spanish design. The walls have what's known as a travertine finish.

Here's a link to photographs of our projection booth and equipment room on the Film-Tech website: http://www.film-tech.com/. You'll have to select PICTURES from the left column then Lincoln Theatre under the heading SINGLES, TWINS, TRIOS AND QUADS. There you will see many photographs primarily of our projection room including the famous booth toilet. Continue at the bottom of the page for photos of the dungeon.