PSTOS - Liberty (American) Theatre, Walla Walla Washington

Liberty (American) Theatre - 2/6 Wurlitzer, Style D "Special"
Walla Walla, Washington
E. Main St.
Organ installation timeframe: 1922 - 1930s

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View from across E. Main Street, 2005. Tom Blackwell photo

The Liberty Theatre was originally called the American. A Style D "Special" Wurlitzer (opus 537) was installed in 1922. With its elaborate terra cotta facade, the Liberty is one of the most unique theatre buildings in the State of Washington.

c.1938

The Liberty's original Wurlitzer organ was removed in the 1930's when a VitaPhone system for "talkies" was installed. In 1935, the instrument was moved to Elerding's Mortuary in Aberdeen, Washington.

View of the theatre in 1997. Tom Blackwell photo

In 1962, the mortuary sold the organ. The console went to Dan Adamson and other parts went to Bob Jones of Edmonds, Washington.

Today, the console controls a 2/11 instrument in the Bremerton Community Theatre in Bremerton, Washington.

Restored signage on North side of building, 2005. Tom Blackwell photo

Colorful stained glass windows over the entrance canopy, 2005. Tom Blackwell photo

Looking up at the left tower, 2005. Tom Blackwell photo

The theatre is currently occupied by a Macy's department store. According to information posted at the theatre, the sloped floor and seats were retained under a false floor.

As of 2005, the simple plaster finishes and coved mouldings of the theatre's interior are in great shape. It is not known whether the plain finishes are authentic to the original, or a later update.

Proscenium, 2005. Note organ grille to the left.. Tom Blackwell photo

Ceiling detail. Tom Blackwell photo
Lighted dome. Tom Blackwell photo

Left organ grille with unique forward-facing orientation, 2005. Tom Blackwell photo

This plaque, which commemorates the original site of Fort Walla Walla, is installed just to the right of the theatre entrance.. Tom Blackwell photo

2005. Tom Blackwell photo

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E. Main St, c.1950s

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E. Main St, c.1967. Note color change of theatre signage

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E. Main Street at night, c.1940's. Liberty Theatre signage at center.

c.1939