Marx Opera House

In 1886, through the efforts of the Marx Family estate, Wyandotte's first building devoted exclusively to theatrical entertainment was erected on Biddle Avenue between Maple and Sycamore streets and named the Marx Opera House. This elaborate and luxurious building seated up to 600 occupants on the main floor and balcony. After a disastrous fire destroyed it in 1908, a new structure replaced it at the northwest corner of Biddle and Sycamore. It became a popular additional stop for troupes of entertainers traveling between Detroit and Toledo engagements. Under the management of Mr. Frank Marx, a strict code of behavior was maintained, with printed rules on the walls that became known as "Heavens First Law." As movies grew more popular, business for live entertainment declined, and the building became the first location of the Rialto movie theater. In 1931, the building was razed to make room for the S. S. Kresge Co., and in 2005, Stroh's Ice Cream Parlour relocated there.

Wyandotte, Michigan · United States