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Capitol (Mercy, State) Theatre - 2/9 Wurlitzer, Style 210
Yakima, Washington
19 S. Third St
Organ installation timeframe: 1920-1941
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Capitol Theatre. Photo, Scott McClelland 2005
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The Capitol was designed by famous Northwest theater architect B. Marcus Priteca. A. B. (Tony) Heinsbergen was hired to create the decorative murals for the theatre's interior. The house opened on April 5, 1920 as the Mercy Theatre. One year later, the name officially changed to the Capitol Theatre. |
A two-manual, nine rank Style 210 Wurlitzer (opus #389) was installed in early 1921. A Style 210 included the following ranks: 16 Harmonic Tuba, 16 Diaphonic Diapason, 8 Tibia Clausa, 8 Clarinet, 8 Orchestral Oboe, 8 Violin, 8 Violin Celeste, 8 Concert Flute, 8 Vox Humana.
Popular Northwest organist Eddie Zollman played the Capitol for several years.
According to former Yakima resident Bob Jones, there were two installations of opus #389 in the Capitol Theatre. "The first was in chambers somewhere in the back stage area, it may have been on stage level or higher, that information I don't know. The second installation was the good one using chambers on each side of the auditorium near the proscenium arch, similar to other theatres like the Seattle Paramount. My experience with the Capital organ was after the 2nd installation took place. I made my first public appearance as organist when I was invited to play the Pomp & Circumstance march for my high school graduation ceremony which was held in the Capitol Theatre."
The organ remained in the theatre until 1941 when it was moved to Tacoma's Roller Bowl Rink by Balcom & Vaughan. |
Opening night program, 64 pages |
The Capitol Theatre building was almost completely destroyed by a fire in 1975. It was rebuilt and is now owned
by the City of Yakima and operated by the Capitol Theatre Committee, a non-profit organization that manages the building. The theatre, now a
National Historic Site, re-opened in 1978.
Theatre entrance. Photo, Scott McClelland 2005.
Restored theatre signage, 2005. Photo, Scott McClelland.
Capitol Theatre, c.1920's
The theatre also operated as the "State" although the exact dates this name was used are unknown.
State Theatre, date unknown
Postcard view of Capitol Theatre, c.1920
Postcard view of S. 3rd Street, Capitol Theatre and Federal Building, c.1920
Aerial view of the Capitol Theatre fly loft, date unknown
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