Shirley Temple, Charlie Chapin and Harold Lloyd are just a few of many
old-time movie stars you may recall, probably as a result of watching
videos and DVDs with family and friends in the comfort of your own
home. But in an actual movie theatre you ask? Odds are you haven't.
The locally famous "Linn Theatre" is located within a twenty-nine
seat antique boxcar attached to the Linn County Historical Museum of
Brownsville. Established in 1962, the theatre features a diverse
collection of many westerns and silent films.
"I have always enjoyed the silent films there, they're always just so
funny!" said Neli Avilez, a resident of Shedd.
The theatre also features the unforgettable "Stand by Me" film (which
was filmed in Brownsville) by throwing "movie night" parties every now
and then.
The Linn Theatre also regularly shows many educational programs to
small groups and elementary students.
"'Steamboat Willy' being their favorite," said Gary Timms, the
manager of the museum/theatre.
While touring the historical museum, you will come across an obsolete
popcorn maker and a beautiful display of photos from famous timeless
movie stars.
Looking up you see the original neon sign reading "Linn Theatre."
While entering the boxcar you sense an everlasting impression of
history through a timeline of the past kinetoscopes, to the present of
IMAX.
"I just love that theatre, it's so surreal, I always get a historical
vibe when I visit there that you don't find in any other theatre in
the valley," said Ashley Svela, a resident of Albany.
The Linn County Historical Theatre is located on 101 Park St.,
Brownsville. The hours are from 1 p.m. through 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday,
and 1 p.m. through 5 p.m. Sundays, and the cost if free.
"Anyone and everyone is welcome, the more the merrier!" said Timms.