Liberty Theater

The Liberty Theater Was Originally Closed In 1982 After Its 40+ Years As A First-Run Movie Theater. I Found Some Trailers On EBay Involving This Theater From 1978-1982 During Its Last 4 Years. Unfortunately I Can’t Find Any Snipes Or Anymore Information About It.

In 1955, the Liberty was the only movie house operating in Vermilion, according to an ad in the June 21 issue of The Lorain Journal. The house was operated by Zegiob Theaters Inc., a local chain also operating the Dreamland and Pearl Theatres in Loraine. The ad noted that, in recent years, the Liberty’s seating capacity had been doubled to 500.

From 2002 through 2006 we were able to make many improvements/upgrades to the building (electrical, doors, windows, HVAC, brickwork, etc.) but sad to say we were unable to complete the restoration and sold the building to a very nice local gentleman. We moved our retail store (The Music Box) to Olmsted Falls.

The Liberty may have had only 252 seats when first opened, however the building was enlarged by adding to the back end. Not sure what year, but late 40s or early 50s. Seating after that was 507 in a long narrow auditorium. You can clerly see where the extension to the building started by looking at the outside walls.

Since I’m in California it’s hard to keep up on my Ohio childhood haunts. Does anyone have any updated info on how the restoration is progressing on the Liberty. Thanks

Yes, the rail line runs behind the theatre building. I don’t remember hearing any trains, but I sure it was possible. By the way, the bulid as built held maybe 300 seats. Sometime in the late forties or very early fifties, the rear of the building was extended and the seating capacity increase to 507. If you look at the side of the building you can see where the extention starts. My family left Ohio in 1959 and I did not return to visit until 2003. I visited with Earl and was impressed by his determination to do the restoration as accurately as possible. In 1959 Vermillion was a town of commercial fishing and summer cottages. I was surprised at how little of the original appearance had in the passing years. I plan to go back again after the theater is completely restored and relive a few childhood memories.

I attended many many movies at the Liberty in the mid 1950’s. During the summer months it was open 7 days a week with a Sunday-Monday program, a Tues-Thurs program and a Friday-Saturday program. Alway a single feature with shorts and cartoon. That was 3 films per week. During the winter the Tuesday-Thursday program was droped and the theatre remained open only 4 days a week. I am beyond thrilled that this theatre will again open and bring joy to a whole new generation.