| Marker Text |
Waco began showing motion pictures at the turn of the century, but more than forty years later, Waco’s black movie-going population still experienced racial discrimination, segregation and discomfort when attempting to see a film. If they were allowed in white cinemas at all, they often had to sit in segregated balconies or rent an auditorium. While serving in World War II, three Waco servicemen, Heyward Weaver Jr (1921-2005), Edward D. Bonner Jr (1919-1986) and George L. Pryor (1918-1963), shared these frustrations and drew up plans for a movie theater that catered to black audiences in Waco. They purchased two lots at 221 Clifton Street in east Waco for $1800 in 1946. Because of systemic racism in the finance industry, they had trouble securing a loan, but with a combination of investments and loans, were able to successfully construct the Alpha Theater. The 500-seat facility opened in 1947. It was built in the streamline moderne style and features a top-curved theater façade, glass bricks and a marquee canopy.
The Alpha quickly became the centerpiece of black cinema in Waco. It was the first black-owned and operated cinema in Waco, and the second, along with the Gem Theater, to serve the city’s growing African American population. Films included those with casts featuring promising young black actors and actresses, such as Imitation of Life (1959), To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) and Lilies of the Field (1963). More than a place to view the latest films, cartoons or newsreels, it was a place for black residents to socially interact.
The Alpha Theater closed in 1970 after 23 years in business. Alterations during a later business venture resulted in removal of many interior features including the seats and movie screen. Efforts have been taken in recent years to restore the building’s arts history. (2022) |
