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History of the Strand Theater: A Legacy of Entertainment

The Strand Theater holds a special place in the heart of our small town. Built in 1921 by the fanciful W.E. Ward, this endearing establishment has been a source of joy, entertainment, and drama for over a century.

W.E. Ward was the editor of the Western Times and a local attorney. He decided Sharon Springs was an up-and-coming town that needed a place to have some good clean fun. As legend has it, the idea of building new theater came to him after he fell through a trap door in the old theater. He was also riding on a building boom in Sharon Springs. The Strand Theater, the old high school and township hall, were all built within six months of each other.

When the Strand Theater was finished it was said to be a great credit to Sharon Springs, a theater for a bigger fancier place. Before the age of talkies, the movies were accompanied by the Sharon Springs 11-piece orchestra in a small are that is now the front of the theater. The theater was also used for clean live traveling including drama, comedy and magic.

Over the years, the ownership of the Strand Theater changed hands, each leaving their mark on its legacy.

G.G. Immel connected to city plumbing and fixed the roof.

The Koons family gets the award for longest ownership. There devoted family ran the theater for 38 years in total. From “12 Angry Men” to “Saving Private Ryan” and all the big moves in between.

Craig Stout created a chain of theaters called Mid America Theaters, with the Strand theater as one of its projects. Recognizing the potential of this historic theater, he embarked on an impressive renovation project, breathing new life into it . However, Stout's grand vision was met with unforeseen challenges, most notably the rapid rise of VHS tapes. As these home-viewing options gained traction, the allure of theaters began to wane, leading to the downfall of Stout's endeavor and the unfortunate failure of Mid America Theaters. Luckily the Koons family was open to the idea of buying back the theater to continue to show movies.

One member of the Koons family, Evelyn Koons, became a beloved figure amongst the theater's patrons. Known for her constant vigilance, she would patrol the aisles with her trusty flashlight, ensuring that no one dared to rest their feet upon the seats. Evelyn Koons embodied the dedication to excellence that the Strand Theater had come to represent.

In 1998, the ownership of the theater was transferred to the community, further solidifying its importance as a treasured local asset. The community began fixed the roofs and installed new seats. However, as the years passed by, the effects of aging began to take their toll. Wood rot became a prevalent issue, and dwindling attendance numbers became a cause for concern.

In 2023, a new board of dedicated individuals stepped forward, bringing fresh vision and enthusiasm to revitalize the Strand Theater. Recognizing the need for change, they embarked on a mission to remove the wood rot that threatened the integrity of the building. Additionally, they paid heed to the needs of modern audiences by renovating the bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
The restoration of the Strand Theater is not merely about the physical structure; it is a testament to the resilience and determination of our community. With renewed spirit and a commitment to preserving its rich history, the Strand is poised to reclaim its position as a vibrant venue for entertainment, bringing joy, and creating lasting memories.

As we look ahead, let us celebrate the remarkable legacy of the Strand Theater and join together in anticipation of the incredible experiences yet to come.