Reel 7 – Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic-The Electric (1910) and Lyric (1909) Continue Their Friendly Commercial Competition Into 1914

To rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, Reel 3, Reel 4, Reel 5, or Reel 6, please click the desired reel.

Electric Theatre second building from right with the arched entry way and the “Theatre” sign sticking out. Will Rogers Boulevard, Claremore, Oklahoma, looking west from Cherokee Avenue.

Reel 7-Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – The Electric (1910) and Lyric (1909) Continue Their Friendly Commercial Competition Into 1914.

The Claremore Progress exclaimed Claremore’s, “Picture Shows Best Ever,” at the dawn of 1914. This epithet would continue throughout the year.

“The Electric and the Lyric Theatres are putting up a high class of entertainment every night and are pleasing the many patrons. As a special feature, Mr. Martin (of the Lyric) has secured special music, while Mr. Webber (of the Electric) makes one believe that he is in the ‘City’ by giving from four to six reels every night, all of which are features.”[i] Mr. Webber presented Thanhouser’s January 1914 released, 56-minute-long, romance The Runaway Princess in two reels (2,204 feet in length). (This was especially ironic since Claremore had experienced its own “runaway princess,” Princess Stefania, who disappeared as mystifyingly as she appeared in town just eight months earlier. No one ever knew what became of the princess.)

“Mr. Martin offered as his feature in one reel, The Price of Jealousy, both of which were enjoyed by those who took occasion to witness the shows. Probably no town in the United States has the good fortune to have two such up-to-date picture shows as Claremore is blessed with. Both Mr. Webber and Mr. Martin take an interest in their shows and are anxious in their efforts to select programs to suit the theatre going people of Claremore which is partially responsible for the liberal patronage which they enjoy. They both use different film service, which gives the people of Claremore an opportunity to see both services. The film service which they use are the best and as a consequence they always have a good show and are always well attended.”[ii]

That February, the Lyric exhibited “The four-reel feature [1913] Caprice, featuring Mary Pickford and Owen Moore, which was presented… to a capacity house.” It “was one of the best pictures that it has ever been the pleasure of the theatre going public of Claremore to witness… It was a pretty story and well-acted and pleased those who saw it.”[iii]

In March, W.R. Webber of the Electric Theatre emphasized, “A well-lighted street is like a well-lighted front. It draws business, and business is what we want on our main street.”[iv]

Harry Martin’s movie house franchise expansion continued. By 1914, Martin owned three Oklahoma picture shows, The Lyric at Claremore, The Lyric at Collinsville , and The Lyric at Tulsa.[v]

This is the same time at which a tiny tidbit of information appeared in The Claremore Progress. “Claremore Garage Enlarged. The management of the Claremore Garage have enlarged their place of business by moving into the room formerly occupied by the 96 Ballard and Inola Pipe Line Co. both of which have in turn moved into the corner room of the same building. The partition has been removed from between the Claremore Garage.”[vi] Remember this announcement because it will eventually have a positive effect on Claremore’s movie theatre magic.

The featured film at the Lyric, Claremore, in May 1914, was the five-reel, The Good Little Devil. This movie, considered Mary “Pickford’s first feature-length film,”[vii] “was a good one and pleased those who saw it. It was produced by Daniel Frohman, which is a recommendation in itself. Mary Pickford played the leading role, which added much to the picture. The new opera chairs which have recently been installed in the theatre add much to the comfort.”[viii]

The four-reel feature, Clothes, a now lost 1914 silent film, ran at the Lyric Theatre “to crowded houses.” It “was an excellent one and proved to be interesting from start to finish. It was the story of how far a woman would go for the sake of having good clothes, and what is the inevitable result, trouble. Such pictures as this one… are a credit to any theatre.”[ix]

As technology and the art of movie making advanced, silent feature films began to grow in length. The Shakespeare play turned Italian movie, Antony and Cleopatra, arrived at the Electric in Claremore with great anticipation. “The sensation of the hour in amusement circles is George Kleine’s production of the Kleine’s photo drama spectacle Antony and Cleopatra. Nothing like it has been seen in the world and the prices paid for exclusive rights by the different European impresarios have been astounding. The subject affords the Kleine’s Company greater scope dramatically and pictorially than their production of Quo Vadis, and they have taken ample advantage of it. The photo drama is arranged in eight parts and three acts, each one of which is a dramatic revelation. Signor [Amleto] Antony Novelli is the Marc Antony and Signora Giovanna Terribili Gonzales is the Cleopatra. They are ably supported by Signor Ignazio Lupi as Octavius, Signorina Matilde di Marzio as Charmian, Signora Elsa Leonard as Octavia, and a host of brilliant actors in the minor characters, some of whom played important parts in Quo Vadis. For spectacular magnificence this production has never been approached. This picture will be shown at the Electric Theatre tonight. Admission 10 and 25 cents.”[x]

After its visitation, The Claremore Progress gave Antony and Cleopatra exceptional reviews. “Antony and Cleopatra One Excellent Feature. The eight-reel feature, Antony and Cleopatra, shown at the Electric Theatre to crowded houses, Thursday night was without doubt, the best motion picture that has ever been shown in Claremore. In fact, it was pronounced by some of Claremore’s best people to be the most wonderful picture that they had ever witnessed. In securing this picture Mr. Webber, manager of the theatre, told the editor that on account of the picture being such a long one and pronounced by all exhibitors so good, he would be forced to raise the price of admission, but that he thought that the Claremore folk are looking for the best and willing to pay for the same, and that the patronage that was granted him Thursday afternoon and night only bore him out that he was right. The next big feature which he has booked, is Quo Vadis, which will be shown at the Theatre in the near future.”[xi]

Meanwhile, at the Lyric, the Kalem company feature, Intrigue, was considered “one of the best two-real features that has ever been shown in the city.”[xii] Harry Martin reported that July, “he had the biggest matinee he has ever had since he owned the Lyric Theatre.”[xiii] Patrons were becoming devoted followers of Claremore’s movie theatre magic, but there was more suspense to come.

That June, the Thanhouser Film Corporation released a successful, unique, clever and attention grabbing serial that enticed the movie going public to return, time and again, to the Electric. “The Million Dollar Mystery (23 chapters in all), the first reels of which were shown at the Electric Theatre Monday night, promises to be one of the most interesting, absorbing and intense pictures that it has ever been the pleasure of the Claremore folk to witness. Even the first two reels of the picture were exciting and were filled with mystery. The Thanhouser Co. is offering a ten-thousand-dollar reward to the person solving the mystery in one hundred words. (In other words, they were to write the best ending to the movie.) One of the questions which the answer will include is ‘What became of the million dollars?’ Those who saw the first two reels at the Electric Monday saw a pair of hands in the dark, work the combination on the safe and take therefrom the million dollars’ worth of currency but whose hands were they? That is the question which will beset many of those who aspire to win the ten thousand dollars for the solution of the mystery. There will be many more questions brought out in the picture which will make you think, if you solve this great story by Harold McGrath. Mr. Webber will show the next two reels next Monday night.”[xiv] Claremore sleuths lined up faithfully and regularly to view the show, eager to design a viable solution to the mystery that would win the prize money.

The Claremore Progress continued to report on the serialized movie’s performances. “Second Episode of Million Dollar Mystery Good. The second episode of The Million Dollar Mystery the most talked of and probably the best motion picture that has ever been produced, was shown at the Electric Theatre Monday night to a large crowd. The picture continues to grow more interesting and more interesting all the time as the plot progresses.”[xv]

With heightened intrigue the Misses Hadady and Kaho entertained their friends with a viewing of The Million Dollar Mystery. “The Misses Helen Hadady and Pauline Kaho were hostesses to a few of their friends Monday evening. Miss Hadady entertained six couples with a six o’clock dinner at the Sequoyah Hotel, after which a line party to the Electric Theatre to witness The Million Dollar Mystery, was enjoyed. The show over, the young folk repaired to Miss Kaho’s home on Second street, where a pleasant social evening was spent with music and rook.”[xvi]

July 1914, brought a “Special Music Find” for musical variety to the Lyric. “The special music by the Empress Orchestra at the Lyric Theatre Friday night, in their rendition of ‘A Hunting Scene,’ a descriptive piece of music of ‘a chase,’ was excellent and was duly appreciated by all who attended. The orchestra is classed among the best in the state and Mr. Martin is extremely fortunate in securing their services during the summer months while most of the theatres at Tulsa are closed.”[xvii]

With the increasing success of the movie house industry, Harry Martin prepared to expand his Lyric movie show franchise once again. This time, Chelsea, Oklahoma, was the chosen location. “Harry Martin went up to Chelsea Wednesday to hang a motion picture curtain at The Lyric… together with Leo A. Moore and Mrs. May Wiggins. They report the show which has just recently been started there to be doing a good business.”[xviii] The Wiggins family moved to Chelsea, where Mrs. Wiggins took charge of the Lyric at that place. [xix]

Back at Claremore, a program shown at the Lyric on a “Monday night was composed of three well-acted pictures, one being especially worthy of mention – Rose O’ My Heart, a real feature in one reel. It was enjoyed to the limit by everyone of the large number who saw it.”[xx]

The movie houses continued to show their community support as “The ladies of the Baptist church were given benefits by the Electric Theatre” on a Wednesday night and by the Lyric on a Thursday night. Though not the only fundraiser, “This was for the purpose of assisting to raise the thousand dollars the young people pledged for buying pews in the new Baptist church.”[xxi] (Another fund raiser they offered was the sale of a delightful cookbook.)

The popular romance movies of the times included an instructive moral to each story and, of course, a happy ending, yet a wide range of often conflicting opinions continued to arise regarding appropriate topics for the film industry’s entertainment offerings. Who would determine what was suitable to view?

by Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Coming Attraction: Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – Reel 8.

Sources:

Oklahoma newspapers used are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

---

[i] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, January 23, 1914.

[ii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 52, Ed. 1 Friday, January 30, 1914. https://www.thanhouser.org/TCOCD/Filmography_files/indiqql9d.htm. “The Runaway Princess.” By Q. David Bowers. © 1995

[iii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 4, Ed. 1 Friday, February 27, 1914.

[iv] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 7, Ed. 1 Friday, March 20, 1914.

[v] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, April 3, 1914.

[vi] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 18, Ed. 1 Friday, April 24, 1914.

[vii] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Good_Little_Devil

[viii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 20, Ed. 1 Friday, May 8, 1914.

[ix] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 22, Ed. 1 Friday, May 22, 1914.

[x] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 22, Ed. 1 Friday, May 22, 1914.

[xi] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 23, Ed. 1 Friday, May 29, 1914.

[xii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 25, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 11, 1914.

[xiii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 9, 1914.

[xiv] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 30, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 16, 1914. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Million_Dollar_Mystery

[xv] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 23, 1914.

[xvi] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 36, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 27, 1914.

[xvii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 23, 1914.

[xviii] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 35, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 20, 1914.

[xix] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 38, Ed. 1 Thursday, September 10, 1914.

[xx] Kates, W. C. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 22, No. 36, Ed. 1 Thursday, August 27, 1914.

[xxi] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 37, Ed. 1 Friday, August 28, 1914.

Reel 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres, Part 3

REEL 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres, Part 3

To start at the beginning to rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, Reel 3, Reel 4, or Reel 5 – please click the appropriate reel.

An Electric Theatre and Claremore highlight electrified the city in the spring of 1913, when local banker and eligible bachelor Earle Bayless had the honor of escorting Princess Stefania Kaunitz of Austria and her maid to the Electric Theatre for entertainment. Princess Stefania had come all the way from her homeland to improve her health by using Claremore’s renown and medicinal Radium Waters. “The princess proved to be a person of much interest, and during the show was the cynosure of nearly all the eyes of the people present, at some time or other. While the pictures were being shown, the princess raised her veil to get a better view, upon the raising of which those who saw her were surprised to note her face was, so far as one could see, not broken out with eczema, but of course the light was rather poor and we might have been mistaken… Those who witnessed the [February 25, 1913, Thanhouser released] two-reel feature, Sherlock Holmes Solves the Sign of Four, [starring Harry Benham and Charles Gunn] at the Electric Theatre Friday night, were unanimous in their expression that it was a masterpiece. Many of the people in the audience had read the story, which made it doubly interesting. Mr. Webber is to be complimented upon securing such a meritorious picture for his patrons.”[lxx]

Over at the Lyric, “A treat was enjoyed” in March 1913, “by the presentation of the [17-minute-long, D.W. Griffith] Biograph drama, The One She Loved, [starring Henry B. Walthall, Mary Pickford and Lionel Barrymore] which was good, as the pictures of this company always are. On account of the bad weather, not a very large crowd was in attendance, but those who were fortunate enough to see this picture were delighted.”[lxxi]

“Harry Martin, the genial manager of the Lyric Theatre, presented for the approval of his patrons,” in April 1913, “an excellent picture namely, The Twilight of Her Life, which was played by an all-star cast. The picture was in one reel, but those who saw the one reel wished that more was to follow. This picture was accompanied by two others of merit, and on the whole, the show was a dandy.”[lxxii]

“In acknowledgement of his appreciation of the liberal patronage which his picture show has been accorded by the people of Claremore, Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, gave a carnation to each lady who passed into his theatre… This was rather a unique idea of Mr. Martin’s, and to say that it proved to be a winner would be putting it mildly. The program presented was especially good. Nowhere in Oklahoma, or any other state for that matter, can there be found any more up-to-date picture shows than right here in our home town.”[lxxiii]

One, two, or even three reel movies were becoming more common, but movie lengths were still considered “short” by today’s market; most were not more than half an hour.

Then Satan came to the Electric. “The great five-reel feature, Satan, which was shown at the Electric Theatre Saturday afternoon and night and Sunday afternoon and night, was absolutely the greatest picture of its kind that has ever been projected upon a screen in this town containing a moral throughout every foot of the picture. Not only was the acting of all the players who helped produce this masterpiece good, especially that of the man who played the part of the devil, but the scenic effect throughout the entire picture was superb.

“The opening scene showed Satan being thrown from heaven and his fall to earth. The first reel dealt with Satan doing evil on the earth in the days of Adam and Eve. The lesson of what happened to those who yield to the temptation of the devil was laid bare and brought home to the minds of all who witnessed the first reel as it was throughout the entire five, coming down step by step unto the present day, showing the devil always wielding an influence over men and women and finally bringing them to ruin, after which he would enjoy a hearty laugh.

“Such pictures are of unlimited value educationally and morally, for much was shown of the crucifixion of Christ. No one who saw this picture went away without giving some concentrated thought. It made one think.”[lxxiv] “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I [Jesus] am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10 KJV”

“A beautiful duet by the ever popular singers, Miss Lois Wiggins and brother, Lawrence, was the next number on the program,” in May 1913, “and to say that their number was pleasing would be putting it mildly. It scored a hit. These two young people are gifted with wonderful voices and the harmony which they draw from a song is especially pleasing to the ear. When it is announced that they will sing at the Lyric Theatre a good crowd is generally the result.”[lxxv]

Community fundraising events continued to be offered at the Lyric. One in May 1913, “was a benefit for the members of the Junior class of the E.U.P.S. [Eastern University Preparatory School at Claremore, now Rogers State University]. The Claremore Progress gave details. “Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, gave a benefit show to the Junior class of the state school Friday night which was well attended and reflected credit upon Mr. Martin for his generosity. The juniors share of the proceeds from the benefit show given at the Lyric Theatre Friday night was $22.70. The money goes into the class treasury. The members of the class wish to publically thank Mr. Martin for his kindness.”[lxxvi]

“The two-reel feature, The Kings of the Forests,” shown at the Lyric Theatre, “was an excellent picture in every respect, and was well attended. Several line parties were in evidence… Misses Maude Littlefield, class mother of the Senior class of the E.U.P.S., and Miss Brooks, mother of the Junior, entertained the Junior class, some thirty in number, at Hall & Gilkerson’s Drug Store, Thursday evening, first having enjoyed a line party at the Lyric Theatre.”[lxxvii]

The Lyric Theatre also “gave a benefit show for the Episcopal church… which was well attended. The programme shown was interesting and held the attention of the audience from beginning to end.”[lxxviii]

“Mrs. Wiggins, the efficient piano player at the Lyric Theatre,” was “placed in charge of the same during the absentee of H.M. Martin” that July.[lxxix] This was also the month the Lyric Theater was robbed! “Have you seen anyone spending a whole lot of nickels? If you have just let us know for we will then have the criminal. On Thursday night, Harry Martin left money in the money drawer at the Lyric Theatre to the amount of $1.55 all in nickels, little thinking that a thief would commit a theft for so small an amount, but upon his return to the theatre Friday morning, he found that such had been the case, the nickels were all gone. The thief had cut the screen through which the admission fee is passed and from the vantage point of having his arm inside had relieved the till of the change. As yet, no trace has been found as to who is the guilty party. It is hoped that the thief is found and punished as a lesson not to do childish things again. Whoever did this is a dangerous criminal. Why he may even rob a baby’s bank the next time.”[lxxx]

Line parties continued to be a rage in the summer of 1913. “Miss Winnifred Jennings entertained a few of her girlfriends with a line party to the Lyric Wednesday evening followed by a bunking party at the home of her parents. It is needless to say that the girls had a grand time… And Mrs. A.L. Kates entertained a few young folk at her residence on Second street, Tuesday evening, with a seven o’clock dinner, after which a line party to the Electric Theatre was enjoyed, followed by liquid refreshments at the Hall-Gilkeson Drug Co. The guests of honor were Misses Dorothy Davenport, of Vinita, Alleene McClure, of Springfield, Mo., and Lois Chandler, of Cassville, Mo. A good time in general was had.”[lxxxi]

And a number of “Little Tots Have Bunking Party. Little Eloise Bishop, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Bishop, gave a slumber party to a few of her little friends last week at the home of her parents. Mrs. Bishop, assisted by Byna Murphy and Mrs. J.C. Lipe, served the guests with a picnic luncheon on the lawn, after which a line party was indulged in at the Electric Theatre. Those to accept Little Miss Bishop’s hospitality were Lillian Adams, Margaret Adams, Ruth Flippin, Rebecca Flippin, Charlotte Payne, Fleta Davis, Muriel Lipe and Miss Thelma Bishop. All report a good time.”[lxxxii]

In August 1913, Charlie Church officiated “in the capacity of operator at the Lyric Theatre, during the absence of Roy Wilson, the regular operator, who” spent “his vacation in Missouri visiting homefolk.”[lxxxiii]

Also that August a plea was made to support the Boy Scouts through a “Scouts Benefit. Billy Webber, owner of the Electric Theatre, gave the Boy Scouts a benefit Friday night and the boys cleared $7 after all of the expenses had been paid. Come business men and get in line and help the Scouts as Mr. Webber and Mr. O’Neil have started the ball rolling, so come on and help the Scouts out as they have reorganized under a new scoutmaster and promise to do some good work with the help of the business men.”[lxxxiv]

August 1913, “perhaps for the first time in the history of the city a boy scout baseball team matched a similar visiting team on the local diamond. It was a return game and the Wagoner boys came up on the morning train, twenty-seven strong… After the game, a large number of the boys went to the swimming pool for a plunge, and this was followed by a benefit picture show at the Lyric Theatre… Harry Martin gave a benefit show for the boy scouts at the Lyric… The money derived from the show was used to help defray the expenses of the Wagoner baseball team’s trip to this city.” A card of appreciation on behalf of the Claremore boy scouts, was published in The Claremore Progress. “I wish to publically thank the owners and managers of the Electric Theatre, the Lyric Theatre, and the Swimming Pool for the benefits given the Boy Scouts, John Barrett for the use of his car Friday, and the business men and the different homes for the courtesies shown our visitors from Wagoner. D. Ferrara, Scoutmaster.”[lxxxv]

The Claremore Progress affirmed, ”To a crowded house throughout the entire evening Saturday, the Electric Theatre showed that great photo-play, Tannhauser, by the famous Thanhouser Company, in three parts, which was by far the most superbly staged and well-acted motion picture feature ever shown in Claremore. Not only was the scenery most elaborate but the ‘Violets’ and ‘My Cabaret,’ sung by Miss Link, pleased the large audience. Costumes were par-excellence. Mr. Webber, the manager of this popular show house, is endeavoring to secure the finest programs obtainable, and it is due to the showing of such features as Tannhauser that he owes the liberal patronage his theatre is enjoying.”[lxxxvi] By September, “Lee Pitts, former operator at the Olympic Theatre of Oklahoma City [had] accepted a position as operator at the Electric Theatre.”[lxxxvii]

Excellent motion picture programs continued to be shown at the Lyric Theatre. “A well-acted Biograph drama, The Hero of Little Italy, was especially interesting, as was also The School Principle [or Principal?], by the Lubin Co., When Dreams Come True and One Can’t Always Tell, completing the evening program, were well received. The Lyric Trio, singing ‘Baby Rose, My Moonlight Pal,’ was enjoyed by all, the selection being rendered in their usually pleasing manner. Mr. Martin, the manager, enjoyed a most liberal patronage during the evening, the verdict of all being an excellent and interesting program.”[lxxxviii]

Claremore’s movie houses continued with benefit events. The benefit at the Lyric “for the Odd Fellows Orphanage was one of the most liberally patronized ever given in the city. The theatre was crowded from beginning to end of the program.”[lxxxix] “The Electric Theatre put on a benefit for the Junior class of the Prep school, and by hard work the students had sold tickets to about everyone in town, which with the Lyric and the Opera House also running, gave amusement for all.”[xc] The Electric Theatre will give a benefit tonight for the Royal Neighbors lodge.[xci]

The movie theatre business was booming; it was time for expansion in December 1913.  Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, told the editor of The Claremore Progress, “that while in Collinsville he purchased the Royal Theatre at that place. He says that he has remodeled the place and made it look like new. He has changed the name of the place of amusement to the Lyric. He says that he kept the doors open only three days last week and that he enjoyed a nice business at the hands of the Collinsville people and that the prospects are very bright for a successful business at that place. [Harry Martin’s son] Victor Martin will take charge of the new show at Collinsville, and as Victor is a bright energetic fellow, who is willing to work, he may well be expected to make a success of his new undertaking”.[xcii] Victor Martin moved to “Collinsville to take charge of the Lyric Theatre.”[xciii]

To close 1913, the two-reel Vitagraph feature, The Test, starring Clara Kimball Young and Herbert Barry played at the Lyric Theatre in Claremore, and “was one of the best pictures… seen for some time. It was a society drama, part of the second scene being laid in Australia.”[xciv]

With fierce commercial competition continuing between the Electric and Lyric, the movie paying public would “test” which theatre provided the best movie theatre magic. But, could the Claremore community continue to provide enough patronage for the two competing movie houses to survive?

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Coming Attractions Coming Soon: Reel 7- Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic.

Sources:

Oklahoma newspapers sourced through  The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[lxx] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 11, 1913.

The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 7, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 27, 1913.

https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/787307-sherlock-holmes-solves-the-sign-of-the-four?language=en-US

[lxxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, March 28, 1913.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_One_She_Loved

[lxxii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 11, 1913.

[lxxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 12, Ed. 1 Friday, April 18, 1913.

[lxxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, May 2, 1913.

[lxxv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, May 16, 1913.

[lxxvi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 17, Ed. 1 Friday, May 23, 1913.

[lxxvii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 18, Ed. 1 Friday, May 30, 1913.

[lxxviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 23, Ed. 1 Friday, July 4, 1913.

[lxxix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 24, Ed. 1 Friday, July 11, 1913.

[lxxx] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 25, Ed. 1 Friday, July 18, 1913.

[lxxxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 26, Ed. 1 Friday, July 25, 1913.

[lxxxii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, August 1, 1913.

[lxxxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, August 1, 1913.

[lxxxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 29, Ed. 1 Friday, August 15, 1913.

[lxxxv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxvi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxvii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 34, Ed. 1 Friday, September 19, 1913.

[lxxxviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxix] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 39, Ed. 1 Friday, August 29, 1913.

[xc] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 45, Ed. 1 Friday, October 10, 1913.

[xci] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 52, Ed. 1 Friday, November 28, 1913.

[xcii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 44, Ed. 1 Friday, December 5, 1913.

[xciii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 2, Ed. 1 Friday, December 12, 1913.

[xciv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 46, Ed. 1 Friday, December 19, 1913.

Reel 5 – Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres – Part 2

REEL 5 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres – Part 2

To start at the beginning to rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, Reel 3, or Reel 4, please click the appropriate reel.

Lyric Theatre would have been located in the Boling building, 4th building from the right. Claremore Main Street looking southeast. Photo courtesy Randy Leach Collection.

Surprisingly, even with the Lyric Theatre’s buy out in November 1911 by R.B. Collins, the Lyric did not disappear from Claremore’s movie theatre stage. And as “the show must go on,” Mrs. Geo. H. Henderson, a former employee of the Lyric Theatre, “accepted her old position as pianist at this popular place of amusement.”[xxxv]

Under the new management of the Lyric Theater, a new electric sign,[xxxvi] a new customer loyalty promotion, and a theatre supported civic event were advertised. “A souvenir of a rose was given the lady attendants,”[xxxvii] and a benefit show was given to support the Claremore band.[xxxviii] The new management of the Lyric  understood the “benefit” of  ingratiating itself to the community where it resided.

But three short months later, March 1912, the Lyric, once again, changed hands. The Claremore Messenger informed the movie going public, “H.H. Kaho and H.M. [Harry] Martin[xxxix] have bought the Lyric Theatre of this city, and took charge of the same Monday. Mr. Collins, who has been the owner for about three months, will leave the city. The Lyric is an old established picture show, is strictly up to date, and bears a good reputation, with a good business.”[xl] The Claremore Progress added, “The Lyric Theatre has changed hands. This time the owners are H.M. Martin and H.H. Kaho; they having taken charge of the business Monday and assure the public that the same class of pictures will be shown in the future as has been shown in the past. Geo. Constant (who had apparently returned from his Texas adventures) will operate the machine as formerly and everyone knows George is a good one. Mr. Collins, the former owner will leave the city for other fields at an early date, having made many friends during his stay in the city.”[xli]

The Rogers County Leader shared the news this way. “The Lyric Theatre changed hands Monday. The new men at the helm are H.M. Martin[xlii] and H.H. Kaho.[xliii] The photoplay patrons are assured that the new management will continue the good service that has characterized the popular place.”[xliv] A month later, H.M. Martin “purchased the interest of his partner, Dr. Kaho, in the Lyric Theatre, and” went on to “conduct the business.”[xlv] Victor Martin,[xlvi] Harry’s son, was manager.[xlvii]

Right away, “The Lyric Theatre management… greatly improved this popular place of amusement by changing the front of the theatre, also increasing the seating capacity and ventilating the building. The pictures are now shown in the front of the building instead of the rear.”[xlviii]  With nearly explosive astonishment to all, “While repairing the Lyric Theatre in the Boling block, workmen tore out a gas pipe which was completely eaten up with rust and which in a short time would have given out, probably causing an explosion that would have wrecked the building. It would be wise to do some more inspecting of pipes.”[xlix]

May 1912, both the Electric and Lyric theaters showed their Claremore spirit. “On Tuesday evening at the Electric theatre, Mr. Webber demonstrated that he is a friend to Claremore’s band by putting on a band benefit program to which the people of the city turned out well. The band boys were seated in front of the theatre and dispensed their very best music, which within itself was a good drawing card. When one stops to consider what an expense accompanies the upkeep of musical organizations of this kind, he should feel only too glad to donate a small sum toward helping the boys alone. ‘For sweet charity’s sake’ there was a special program rendered at the Lyric Wednesday evening to a house crowded to overflowing. In addition to three reels of good pictures there was special music, the ladies’ quartet and Messers. Hughes and Boren rendering vocal selections, which merited applause. The kindness of the management in this assisting such a good cause is commendable indeed.”[l]

June 1912, moving pictures were shown Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights of each week at the Electric Theater. “Nothing but the very best will be shown. New pictures each night. B.F. Tanner, Mgr.”[li] Robin Hood was billed as one of the theater’s special attractions.[lii]

And just for kicks, in August 1912, “Little Juanita Hale sang ‘Gotta Quit Kickin’ My Dawg Around’” at the Lyric.[liii]

Always looking for ways to improve their productions to draw a crowd, in September 1912, both the Electric and Lyric Theatres added “new features to their shows in the form of high-class singing. The Electric has engaged the Knowland Sisters for a five months’ run and they are exceedingly good singers. Mrs. Wiggins and her daughter and son are at the Lyric and are doing some very clever work in the line of high class singing.”[liv]

Not only conscientious about production improvement, by the fall of 1912 the Electric Theatre received a facelift. “Wm. Webber contemplates making extensive improvements on the Electric Theatre in the near future. The walls will be decorated, new carpets will be placed on the floor and other extensive improvements will be made in the lobby. When Mr. Webber completes his improvements he will have one of the most up-to-now picture shows in the state and as he only shows pictures that are the best, his house will be second to none in every detail.”[lv]

The two extensively publicized movie houses in Claremore in 1912 were the Lyric and the Electric. “Claremore has without a single doubt as good picture shows as any in the United States. No picture show in the world could furnish any more or any higher class pictures for the price of admission than we get here at home for the small price of ten cents. The singing alone, such as we get at both shows, is worth the price of admission and the shows which the Lyric and the Electric put up Tuesday night, each with a two-reel feature, made one feel that the management of these houses appreciate the patronage of the citizens and were endeavoring to furnish them with the largest and best pictures available. The two-reel feature, Human Hearts at the Electric Tuesday night was magnificent both in the scenic effect and the acting. King Baggot playing the lead as the village blacksmith, portrayed that character in a manner that won the heart of every person present. The song ‘Good Night Beloved, Good Night,’[lvi] by the Knowland sisters was beautiful and duly appreciated as was shown by the hearty applause they received. The two-reel feature, A Temporary Truce, at the Lyric Tuesday night was acted by the Biograph Company and was the most realistic portrayal of Western life that has ever been shown in the city. The singing of the Lyric Trio was excellent and were forced to respond three times before the audience would be satisfied. We have two good shows in one good town… The [Edison] picture, Revenge is Sweet, at the Lyric Monday night was a dandy and convulsed the audience with merriment. Those who missed it missed a treat.”[lvii]

The Lyric received a significant endorsement that October in the Talala Gazette. “Moving Picture Shows. The Gazette is not in the habit of recommending shows of any kind to its readers, but this week we are going to make an exception and tell you which one to attend when you are in Claremore waiting for the train. If you go to the Lyric you will not be disappointed, since Harry Martin, the manager, never puts on anything but what is strictly down-to-the-minute in the movie picture line. In fact, a fellow told the Gazette man that Martin’s machine was so sensitive that it would not run out ‘a bum picture to an audience.’ We rather suspect this is true, as we had no trouble in finding men willing to corroborate the above statement. Satisfy yourself about this matter when you go to Claremore, and if you are ‘stung,’ come to the Gazette office and get your dime back.”[lviii]

That October the Lyric “arranged to handle motion pictures of the state fair. Among other things the Claremore band will be shown in action.”[lix]

The 1912 Biograph motion picture A Dash Through the Clouds was shown at the Lyric Theatre in November. The movie “was the most realistic picture of an areoplane [sic] in flight that [had] ever been shown in the city. A pretty little love story was interwoven in between the flights which made the picture interesting otherwise than the prospective.”[lx]

Lady of the Lake was said to be a “Good Show. The [Vitagraph] motion picture, The Lady of the Lake, which appeared at the Lyric Theatre Wednesday night was a three-reel feature which portrayed Sir Walter Scott’s poem of that name in a very pretty manner. The scenes of this poem and picture lay in the highlands of Scotland and dealt with the nobility of Scotland. Large and appreciative audiences viewed this masterpiece and were unanimous in their praise of the same.”[lxi]

As an added attraction, “The Claremore band gave an excellent concert in front of the Lyric Theatre,” one evening in early November “for which the management wishes to publically thank them. The weather was very cold but in spite of that fact, the boys put up some classy music.” [lxii]

“The picture, Ghosts, at the Lyric,” in December “was exceptionally good and replete with beautiful scenes laid around an old southern mansion. The old southern gentleman becomes encumbered with debts and is forced to give up the mansion to satisfy his creditors. The picture was composed of many beautiful thoughts, showing how the heart lingers about home… Such pictures as these are a delight to the eye,” declared the Claremore Progress.[lxiii]

Competition between major early film production studios, such as inventor Thomas Edison’s Edison Studio, Thanhouser Company founded by Edwin and Gertrude Thanhouser and brother-in-law Lloyd Lonergan, the French company Pathé Frères, Biograph Studios with the renowned director D.W. Griffith, and Vitagraph which eventually became Warner Bros. in 1925, increased as 1912 faded into the past.

Claremore’s movie theatre magic opened the year of 1913 with the good news, that Mrs. Wiggins, singer at the Lyric, who had been absent due to illness, was “so far recovered, as to be able to fill her position” once again.[lxiv] Since silent movies needed musical accompaniment to enhance and interpret the action, a strong and engaging musician and vocalist were a necessity. The quality of local pianists and singers could make or break the popularity of a production. Mrs. Wiggins was considered quite gifted as both.

“The picture program shown at the Lyric Theatre,” on a Tuesday night in January, “was of the best. Each reel was fine, The Indelible Stain, a story of the old mission days in California, being exceptionally interesting. It is this class of program that merits the large patronage this popular theatre enjoys.”[lxv]

The following week,  Vitagraph’s The Irony of Fate, “was excellent, featuring Florence Turner and Miss Clara Kimball.”[lxvi] The Night Before Christmas and The Box Car Baby were “two very interesting reels shown… and were greatly appreciated by the large crowd in attendance.”[lxvii] These features were reeling at the Lyric, as great films were looping at the Electric during the winter season.

Released on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1912, and reaching Claremore after the new year, Edwin Tanhouser’s film, The Star of Bethlehem shown at the Electric Theatre “was the most gorgeous and expensive moving picture film ever shown in this city.”[lxviii] The Holmes and Shope show came and went. “Their performance consisted of vaudeville and moving pictures. They had Mr. Tanner’s Electric Theater leased and had a crowded house every night.[lxix]

As the joys of the winter holiday season melted away thoughts turned to spring as a secret circulated through Claremore’s social circles declaring that a real live celebrity, a princess was coming to town. What part would she play in Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic?

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Coming attractions: REEL 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric Theatres (1910), Part 3, click here.

by Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Unless otherwise noted, Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

Sources:

[xxxv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 40, Ed. 1 Friday, November 3, 1911.

[xxxvi] 1911 Dec 29 – The Electric Theater has a new electric sign and the Pastime has gone out of business.

Knight, H. Tom. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 95, Ed. 1 Friday, December 29, 1911.

[xxxvii] Knight, H. Tom. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 88, Ed. 1 Friday, November 10, 1911.

[xxxviii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 42, Ed. 1 Friday, November 17, 1911.

[xxxix] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33349697/harry-m-martin  Harry M. Martin. Birth 1862. Death 1937 (aged 74-75). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery. Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-25-L3.-6W. Spouse Myrtle C. 1870 – 1940. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33350776/myrtle-catherine-martin

Victor Martin. Birth 1891. Death 1956 (aged 64-65). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery. Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33351006/victor-martin

[xl] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xli] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 8, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xlii] Harry M. Martin. Birth 1862. Death 1937 (aged 74-75. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-25-L3.-6W. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33349697/harry-m-martin

[xliii] Harry H. Kaho. Birth 18 Nov 1873. Death 12 Jul 1949 (aged 75). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-8.-L3.-4E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33998971/harry-kaho

[xliv] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 3, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xlv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 12, 1912.

[xlvi] Victor Martin. Birth 1891. Death 1956 (aged 64-65). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.  Location: CP2-25-L3.-6E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33351006/victor-martin  http://www.interment.net/data/us/ok/rogers/woodlawn-cemetery-records-ma-mc.htm

[xlvii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, October 4, 1912.

[xlviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, April 26, 1912.

[xlix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, April 26, 1912.

[l] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, May 17, 1912.

[li] The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 6, No. 44, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 13, 1912.

[lii] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 26, Ed. 1 Friday, August 30, 1912.

[liii]  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZRiJwK4f_0 or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ3rXbFn8qE

Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 22, Ed. 1 Friday, August 2, 1912.

[liv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 33, Ed. 1 Friday, September 13, 1912.

[lv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 35, Ed. 1 Friday, September 27, 1912.

[lvi] “Human Hearts” https://nypl.getarchive.net/media/good-night-beloved-good-night-4f5e02 sheet music.

https://archive.org/details/HumanHeartsForYT

“Good Night Beloved, Good Night” https://archive.org/details/78_good-night-beloved-good-night_harry-macdonough-oliver-fay_gbia0009496b/Good+Night%2C+Beloved%2C+Good+Night+-+Harry+Macdonough.flac

[lvii] ‘Revenge is Sweet’  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVRcfcbqRWI

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 37, Ed. 1 Friday, October 11, 1912.

[lviii] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 31, Ed. 1 Friday, October 4, 1912.

[lix] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 32, Ed. 1 Friday, October 11, 1912.

[lx] A Dash Through the Clouds https://archive.org/details/ADashThroughTheClouds1912

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxi] Lady of the Lake https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGvvTVIxHiA

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxiii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, December 27, 1912.

[lxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, January 3, 1913.

[lxv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 50, Ed. 1 Friday, January 10, 1913.

[lxvi] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, January 17, 1913.

[lxvii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 5, Ed. 1 Friday, February 28, 1913.

[lxviii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 10, Ed. 1 Friday, February 7, 1913.

[lxix] The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 7, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 27, 1913.