Ramsdell Theatre

Ramsdell Theatre is a Michigan historical marker in Manistee, Manistee County, dedicated 1980.

Manistee County · dedicated 1980 · 101 Maple, Manistee

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Thomas Jefferson Ramsdell—pioneer lawyer, state legislator, and civic leader—built this theater between 1902 and 1903. Many traveling companies played here and praised the features that made it unique among the playhouses of the era. Theatrical artist Walter Burridge painted the main curtain utilizing the theme “A Grove Near Athens.” The dome and lobby murals were the work of Thomas Ramsdell’s son Frederick. Public spirited citizens saved the landmark from demolition in the early 1920s. It was acquired by the city of Manistee in 1943. The Manistee Civic Players have helped to preserve its architecture and interior decor. The Ramsdell Theatre was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

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under a mile from where William Gabby lived in the 1760s

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Marker data: Michigan History Center
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More markers nearby

Manistee City Libraryunder 1 mi
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On the National Register nearby

Ramsdell Theatre200 ft

Places within about 300 feet of this marker that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A nearby listing is not always the marker's own subject.