Struthers Library Theatre

The nation's 18th-oldest continuously operating theatre.

In early 1882, Thomas Struthers proposed to erect, at his own expense, a building suitable for the accommodation of the Library, and rental spaces, including a Public Hall, the rents and profits from these to be for the use of the Library Association. Struthers' offer was dependent on the citizens of Warren expressing their interest in the project by the purchase of a suitable site for the building. A committee was established to confer with Struthers relative to his generous proposal, and a fund for the purchase of the site was subscribed. In June 1882, the chosen site was deeded to Thomas Struthers in consideration of $7,050 paid to the landowners by the committee. Work commenced on the building shortly after.

Thomas Struthers named 7 trusteesin his declaration of trust to manage the building. Two of the original trustees were women. Struthers designated one of the trustee positions to always be filled by the current President Judge.

Architecturally speaking

The 1883 Struthers Library Theatre Building is an interesting architectural amalgamation of styles popular in the late Victorian period. The building shows influences of the Victorian Second Empire as well as elements seen in Italianate commercial architecture. A student of historical architecture will recognize traits of the Second Empire apartments in Paris and a return to the Italian Renaissance as depicted in Victorian commercial buildings of the Italianate style.

Explore Related Categories