In the annals of West Virginia’s architectural heritage, the Cottrill Opera House in Thomas is a testament to the enduring legacy of design.
In the annals of West Virginia’s architectural heritage, the Cottrill Opera House in Thomas is a testament to the enduring legacy of design. Conceived in 1902 by the esteemed architectural firm of Holmboe and Lafferty, the structure’s facade bore the indelible mark of skilled craftsmanship. However, the ravages of time exacted their toll, and in 1940, the upper portion of the facade sustained damage, necessitating a subsequent stuccoing.
The opera house’s origins can be traced to Hiram Cottrill, a prominent figure who arrived in Thomas in 1887. Initially employed as a mine superintendent at the Davis Coal & Coke Company, Cottrill later embarked on an enterprising career as an impresario, overseeing the operations of the esteemed theater.
Regrettably, the curtain fell on the Cottrill Opera House’s illustrious history in the 1970s, and the once-grand edifice succumbed to years of neglect. Yet, in a heartening turn of events, a concerted effort is underway to restore this architectural gem to its former glory, breathing new life into a cherished piece of West Virginia’s cultural history.
2 Comments
Add Yours →Given the often obscene amount of money it usually takes to refurbish buildings of this type and size I wonder how much this project cost and where the funds came from. While I’m all for historical preservation up to a point with a state that has one the highest rates of cancer and cardiac issues is this the way to go? This reminds me of the Masonic Temple debacle here in Binghamton NY that has been dragging on for decades. At least that building if razed would open up two adjacent lots that would be right off downtown and could be used for a number of reasons. This WV location seems to be pretty much landlocked. Just saying.
Is this the same structure on Front Street, Thomas, that became the Sutton Theater. It was at this theater that I saw my first motion picture in the early 40’s. I was born in Thomas May of 1940 then moved to a house on 26 Hill overlooking fantastic views of Western Maryland RR action. Also from there, my brothers and I could watch my Dad walk the rails from Douglas that eventually got him back to our hours on the hill. I currently live in northern Michigan and am searching for old photos of WM rail operation.
Jack Staron, Elk Rapids, MI