The Wayne Opera House

Built by "Louella" owner J. Henry Askin in 1870-71, the Wayne Opera House was the center of life in Wayne for more than 40 years. Located at the corner of Lancaster and North Wayne Avenues, it was the venue of various stage productions, musical performances, and even the first motion pictures shown in Wayne. This photo dates from the early 1880s, when the "Wayne Estate" was first being constructed.

The buildings visible in the background were largely made of brick, and are all under construction in this picture. The house immediately to the left of the Opera House was where Mr. Askin lived when he sold "Louella," and it is now the site of Wayne Jewelers. The Opera House met an unfortunate fate 97 years ago this week; the aftermath will be seen in next week's photo.

- Greg Prichard,