Vol. 159 No. 20 September 30, 2021
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“The First Lady of American Cinema,” Lillian Gish.
Historic photo of The Central City Opera.
The trailblazers of Culture in Central City The Central City Opera— there is so much to be passed down to generations
about this gem nestled in our majestic peaks of green and gold. From its origin
and architecture, to the fine citizens who nurtured and preserved this historical jewel, the story of The Central City Opera will live on for an eternity. Built in 1878 by Cornish and Welsh miners, it is known as the oldest opera
house in Colorado. Its origin was started in 1877 by the townspeople of Central City who gathered together to raise $12,000 to create the iconic venue—and reflect the city’s reputation of being “the richest square mile on earth.” The elegant stone exterior with four-foot thick walls was realized by architect Robert S. Roeschlaub. The interior was designed with extravagant trompe l’oeil paintings, by artist John C. Massman. Early performances included Buffalo Bill and P.T.
Barnum’s Circus. In 1881 Henry R. Wolcott acquired the opera house, and quickly sold the building to Gilpin County for $8,000 to use as a courthouse. This did not sit well with the steadfast locals who had donated for its construction in 1877. In turn, the community once again organized to buy back the opera house. The largest stockholder was actor, Horace M. Hale. Eventually Hale’s restoration contractor, Peter McFarlane, Continued ON PAGE 9