Esquire Theatre

JCharles on September 23, 2017 at 9:06 am

The above link from the Ontario Government Archives no longer works; here is the text regarding the Esquire:

“The Esquire Theatre in Southampton was a primitive operation even for its time. An inspector pointed out in 1943 that there were no toilets of any kind in the building,and not even a wash-basin! After WWII, the Chief Inspector required that the building be upgraded, stating that “as you are no doubt aware, the Esquire Theatre does not meet with present day building regulations passed under the Theatres and Cinematographs Act. During the years of the War, we hesitated to order replacement or major alterations due to materials and labour being in very short supply. However, we now feel that steps must be taken to eliminate such hazardous situations and this is to advise you that the Provincial license will not be renewed upon expiry date of May 31st, 1949. You are being advised at this time so that plans may be formulated for a replacement of the existing building or, if feasible, major alterations” (RG 56-9-0-67-3). The owner was unable to finance the extensive renovations, and sold the theatre to Southampton Enterprises. The theatre remained in operation until 1974, although in its last years it was only open during the summer tourist season.”

http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/explore/travelling/documents/ontario-movie-theatres.pdf

JCharles on January 27, 2010 at 4:52 am

That closure date is incorrect. The Esquire closed its doors in 1974. For the last few years of its existence, it ran third run double features and was only open during the summer. The building now houses a restaurant.

Here is an entry about the theatre from the Archives of Ontario:
View link