Wells Theater

This is the National Register of Historic Places nomination form for the Wells Theater and here is an interior photo that belongs with that form.

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980

Wells Theatre ** (added 1980 – Building – #80004312)
Tazewell St. and Monticello Ave., Norfolk (Independent City)
Historic Significance: Architecture/Engineering, Event
Architect, builder, or engineer: E.C. Horn & Sons
Architectural Style: Beaux Arts
Area of Significance: Performing Arts, Architecture
Period of Significance: 1900-1924
Owner: Private
Historic Function: Recreation And Culture
Historic Sub-function: Theater
Current Function: Recreation And Culture, Work In Progress
Current Sub-function: Theater

I went to the Wells Theatre in 1959 or 1960. Saw a western double feature, Bob Hope western? It was a grand old Palace on hard times. Sat in the balcony. I was 11 or 12 years old and didn’t notice any unusual behavior, if I saw any I didn’t know to notice.

I went to the Wells in 1960 or 1961 and saw King Kong. It had lots of empty seats and was apparently used at that time by the homosexual community as a pick up spot.

Downtown Norfolk is a pretty decent place with so many old bldgs and the big mall right across from this theater.Where else can you shop at Nordstroms,go on a real battleship,take a harbor cruise,a broadway play and then go up the street a little to a great club in another old theater in one day?

The theatre is situated at 110 East Tazewell Street, near the intersection with Monticello Avenue. The Wells was designed by the architectural firm of E.C. Horn & Sons.