Croswell Opera House - History

History

Designed and built from 1864-1866 by John C. Brompton, the Croswell Opera House has remained a fixture of recreation and culture in Lenawee County and the surrounding areas. People who spoke at the Croswell in its early days include Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony.

In 1921, the Croswell was converted into a movie theater and would remain one until 1967, when it was scheduled for destruction. The Adrian Foundation saved the building and the Croswell Opera House, and Fine Arts Association was created in order to promote the arts and to preserve the heritage of the opera house. In 1976, the two adjacent buildings were acquired, annexed, and renovated into the current art gallery, offices, and rehearsal spaces.

The Croswell became an official Michigan Historic Site in 1976 and was added in 1985 to the National Register Of Historic Places.

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