Boonville In 1930, people who lived in and around Boonville were excited about the news that a “talking picture” would be shown at Forrests’ Temple of Shadowland. Before that, the popular movie theater located on the Boonville Square had only shown silent films, with the script between the actors scrolling across the bottom of the screen. Local musician Ernest Owen provided the appropriate musical accompaniment with a Hammond Organ. In order to make the necessary changes, the theater was closed down for three weeks while the sound system and new plush seats were installed. The “talkies” proved to be a hit in Boonville. Despite the hard times, families saved up their pennies and went to the movies because it offered them hours of diversion from their daily woes. The theater changed hands in the 1940s and was renamed The Ritz Theater. Saturday afternoons were known for their
Talking Pictures
double features — two movies for the price of one. All of the big stars of the era — Abbott and Costello, Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, Gene Autry, Hopalong Cassidy and the Lone Ranger — graced the screen at the Ritz. The original blockbuster, “Gone With the Wind,” was a hit in 1947. Despite failing health, the owners continued to observe several long-standing traditions of the theater. One of the most popular events was Dish Night. All the women who attended the movie received a free place setting of China or a ceramic dish. Many women attended the shows regularly to get a full set of dishes. The theater also hosted Jack Pot Night. An ticket was drawn from a pot and the audience member with the matching number won a cash prize. Eventually, Donald Julian bought the theater and turned it into a drug store, soda fountain and living quarters. Today, American Advertising calls the old Ritz Theater home. � —Barbara Brown-Meyer
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