Simon Theatre facts for kids
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Simon Theatre
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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View of the upper story of the Simon Theatre in 2010
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 Simon Theatre
Location in Texas
Simon Theatre
Location in the United States
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| Location | 109 W. Main St., Brenham, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1925 |
| Built by | R.P. Ball |
| Architect | Alfred Finn |
| Part of | Brenham Downtown Historic District (ID04000154) |
| Designated CP | March 10, 2004 |
The Simon Theatre is a historic building in Brenham, Texas. It was built in 1925 by James Simon. A famous architect named Alfred C. Finn designed it. For many years, the Simon Theatre was a busy place. People came to watch plays, vaudeville shows (a mix of acts like singing and comedy), and movies. It also hosted special events and ballroom dances.
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A Special Texas Landmark
The Simon Theatre is a very important building. The League of Historic American Theatres calls it a Texas Historic Theatre. This means it's recognized as a special old theater in Texas.
Protecting History
The Architecture Division of the Texas Historical Commission has listed the theatre as an Endangered Historic Property. This means they want to help protect it. The Brenham Main Street Historical Preservation group is working to create a visitor center inside the building.
Part of a Historic District
The Simon Theatre is also part of the Brenham Downtown Historic District. This whole area is a special landmark. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places in the United States that are important to history.
The Simon Center Project
The Simon Theatre is currently being fixed up and made new again. It will soon be called the Simon Center.
Saving the Simon Theatre
An organization called "Save Our Simon" is working hard to preserve the theatre. On September 28, 2007, this group raised $1.2 million for the renovation. By the end of 2008, they had raised $2 million. So far, they have collected $2.3 million to help with the project.
A Community Investment
On February 22, 2007, John Nau, who leads the Texas Historical Commission, spoke about the project. He said the Simon Center would bring a historic building back to life. He also said it would be a "tremendous economic development investment" for the community. This means it will help the local economy.
Future Plans
The plans for the Simon Center include fixing up the old theatre and ballroom. The building is 83 years old. Once finished, it will be used as a convention center and a visitors center. This will make it a useful place for the community again.
Expert Design Work
A company from Dallas called ArchiTexas is in charge of the design. This company has experience restoring old courthouses and other theatres in Texas. Donna Cummins, an administrator for "Save Our Simon," shared this information.
See also
