Originally known as the Opera House, Mr. W.E. Weekly later converted the two-story building into the Gem Theatre. Masonic meetings were held on the second floor. This 5" x 3-1/2" black and white photograph shows the wood frame building with an enclosed entrance porch and a one-story addition at the back. A sidewalk runs in front, political fliers line a telephone pole and an advertising poster hangs on the front of the building. Written on the photograph is: Opera house, Valley, Neb.
The building was completely destroyed by fire on October 31, 1947. The fire started about 11:00 p.m. in the projection room after the second show. About 100 people were in the building. Everyone got out unharmed.
