THE TEMPLE THEATRE
Meridian, Mississippi
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| The Temple Theater was constructed in 1923 by the Hamasa
Shrine and leased to the Saenger Theater chain in 1927. Saenger originally
leased the building for 25 years and renewed for an additional 20, ending
in 1972. This beautiful motion picture palace featured Byzantine motif,
marble fountains, and splendid bronze chandeliers. It is said to have rivaled
the ornate movie houses of New Orleans and Atlanta. With seating for 1800
persons, the silent movie era was a prosperous time for the Temple. Another
feature of this lavish cinema was the MIGHTY ROBERT MORTON PIPE ORGAN. With
its ornate white and gold console, excellent stop selection, and good acoustical
setting, the organ thrilled audiences from near and far. Fortunately, as
many 1920's movie houses were meeting the fate of the wrecking ball, the
Temple, now under the care of the Shrine, was painted, recarpeted, and the
1800 seats were recovered. The theater again saw life as it was used for
both Shrine functions and for public screenings of classic movies. |
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| Through a quarter-century of personal effort and sacrifice, resident organist Frank Evans kept the Mighty Morton playing. Frank has fought the ravages of time, leaking roofs, and falling plaster and, as a result, the organ was operating and playable as recently 2007. We understand that the fate of the building is uncertain at this time. | |
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Console of the Temple's Mighty
Robert Morton organ
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The following photographs are by Tom Hoehn
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Background music heard on this site is being played by Frank Evans.
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