Esthena Theatre

In the 1960’s I worked at the Music Box as an usher. I remember the Crown Liquor Store at this location very well. Crown had a deliveryman named “Frankie” who made all his deliveries with a special bicycle equipped with a very large basket in front of the handlebars, supported by a large triangular kickstand. Frankie used this bike in all types of weather- I never saw him drive a car. It was rumored that despite appearances, Frankie was quite well-off financially. He was one of the many colorful Southport Avenue citizens my parents “Whitey” and Dolores knew for many years. Whitey worked at the Music Box from 1929, Dolores from the 1950’s.

Ken, I am looking at the 1914 movie ad right now. The Blaine is listed at 3743 N. Southport. Esthena at 3709 N. Southport. The Rex Theatre is at 3448 N. Southport. The Star Theatre is listed at Fullerton and Southport. Interestingly, the Fullerton is listed at 2424 N. Lincoln, which would later be known as the Crest and then later the 3-Penny. I can’t seem to get 3-Penny Cinema anymore on this web site anymore. Do you know why? Thank you much, Tim O'Neill