Opened September 1, 1928 as 'the most elaborate movie palace between New Orleans and Baton Rouge' — 1,200 seats, a $12,000 Robert Morton Wonder Organ, Renaissance Jacobian stone carvings on the brick facade, and an Arctic-Air Refrigerated Cooling System advertised as a sensation. After decades of decline, Southeastern Louisiana University restored it and reopened in 2002. The 830-seat Hainkel Hall now hosts operas, concerts, dance, film screenings of cult classics, and community performances. The neon marquee in Mardi Gras colors — purple, green, gold — is still the most distinctive sign in downtown Hammond.
Quick facts
- ·The Columbia Theatre in Hammond opened September 1, 1928 as a 1,200-seat movie palace.
- ·Its original Robert Morton Wonder Organ cost $12,000 — roughly $220,000 today.
- ·Southeastern Louisiana University restored and reopened the theatre in 2001 after decades of decline.
- ·The building features Renaissance Jacobean stone carvings on its brick facade.
- ·Visitor tip: check SLU's performing arts calendar — touring shows and student productions fill the season.
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Editorial content compiled with AI assistance. Place details verified against public records.