Lincoln Theatre Columbus
Current Name of Theater: Lincoln Theatre
Current Type: Theatre
Seats: 566 / 1 screen
Website: http://www.lincolntheatrecolumbus.com/
Historic Names of Theater: The Ogden Theatre & Ballroom, Lincoln Theatre
Address: 769 E. Long Street,
Columbus, OH 43203
Contact: Suzan Bradford
Email: sbradford@capa.com
Year Built/Style: 1928
Original Architect: Carl Anderson
Original Cost:
Listed on National Register: yes – 92001355
History of Theater: The Ogden Theatre & Ballroom opened on Thanksgiving Day 1928. Later renamed Lincoln Theatre it became eligible in 1992 for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A for its association with the cultural history of the African-American community in Columbus. The building was developed by an African-American fraternal organization; constructed by an African-American construction company; managed by an important local African-American entrepreneur; and was a center for stage and screen entertainment for Columbus’ African-American population for decades. It is one of the best remaining vestiges of early 20th century African-American history in the city.
Cost of Rehabilitation:
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Renovation Story: The Lincoln Theatre reopened 25th May 2009, after renovations and restorations had been carried out.
The Lincoln Theatre project is sharing a $500,000 appropriation for the King-Lincoln District,
provided for in Am. Sub. H.B. 699 of the 126th General Assembly, with the nearby King Arts
Complex. The King-Lincoln District is a historic neighborhood on Columbus’ near-east side,
which has been targeted for revitalization by city leaders.
First developed by local entrepreneur Al Jackson and designed in the Egyptian Revival style by architect Carl Anderson, The Ogden Theatre and Ballroom opened on November 26, 1928. It was soon a nexus of excitement, entertainment and community life in the predominantly African-American neighborhood known as the King-Lincoln District on the city’s near east side. The Ogden was renamed the Lincoln Theatre in 1939 and continued to operate as a movie theatre and a nationally recognized hotspot for jazz. The 1960s and ’70s brought change and upheaval. Major highway construction cut off the King-Lincoln District from downtown and displaced more than 10,000 residents. The theatre was forced to shut its doors. The Lincoln sat empty for three decades incurring such damage as to be threatened with demolition. Repairs to the outer building saved the theatre, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
More than just a building, the Lincoln Theatre had served as an anchor in the King-Lincoln District inspiring pride, hope and aspiration. Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman believed it could again serve as a catalyst for change and renewal. With a clarion call that engaged the hearts, minds, and imaginations of city and county leadership, local businesses, and Columbus citizens, Mayor Coleman announced the King-Lincoln District would be revitalized, and in 2002 the City of Columbus purchased the property. The newly renovated Lincoln Theatre opened its doors with a free public open house on May 25, 2009, following a $13 million renovation. Attendees from across the state marveled at the meticulously restored Egyptian-themed decorative elements and the completely modern facilities, seating, and stage equipment. Three days later on May 28, 2009, Broadway star Maurice Hines inaugurated the new Lincoln Theatre with a sold-out performance.
The Lincoln Theatre has re-emerged as a vital player on Columbus’ cultural landscape, hosting events nearly seven days a week. From programs geared to underserved youths and training opportunities for college students, to hosting recognized and emerging performers, national corporate brands, and neighborhood events, the Lincoln Theatre is the picture of vitality and a model of revitalization—fulfilling a pressing need in the community and serving as a symbol of hope and vision for the future.
