Tag Archives: old Madison

Orpheum Theater restoration progress

The renovation of the Orpheum Theater is progressing. While photographing this beautiful theater yesterday, I met Gus Paras, the owner who is sinking millions of his own money to restore the Orpheum to its original 1927 luster. We only chatted briefly but he was nice. I personally thanked him for doing the renovation, although I am sure a large number of Madisonians will also be thankful.

The theater itself is beautiful, and the inside is even more amazing, being an Art Deco style theater. I have seen a number of classic film works here such as the original Star Wars film, Star Trek 11, etc. The Orpheum is a true Madison icon.

summeronandnearstatest-cq74_copy

Continue reading Orpheum Theater restoration progress

Old Madison Photos

I am fascinated with photographic history, especially from the era of the 30’s to 50’s. Theaters, old buildings, architecture, cars, and life in general from this era is very fascinating to me – especially in b/w. Just about any old building in any city in America would be interesting, but here I focus on Madison, WI. Links to a few interesting images are given below.

Classic shot of the two theatres on State: https://www.facebook.com/LostMadisonWisconsin#!/photo.php?fbid=357207731020639&set=a.339946906080055.77992.339942466080499&type=1&theater

Majestic Theatre: https://www.facebook.com/LostMadisonWisconsin#!/photo.php?fbid=354604221280990&set=a.339946906080055.77992.339942466080499&type=1&theater

Badger liquor 1941: https://www.facebook.com/LostMadisonWisconsin#!/photo.php?fbid=352076778200401&set=a.339946906080055.77992.339942466080499&type=1&theater

State St. old cars around 1938: https://www.facebook.com/LostMadisonWisconsin#!/photo.php?fbid=346061765468569&set=a.339946906080055.77992.339942466080499&type=1&theater

This is nice with cable cars, etc. you can recognize many of the old buildings here. https://www.facebook.com/LostMadisonWisconsin#!/photo.php?fbid=382831325124946&set=a.382831311791614.90436.339942466080499&type=1&theater

  • Strand [1, 2, 3]
  • Head of State St. – 1, 2.

If you “click around” on the above links, you can find much more. Many more images are also found at the State Historical Society.