The Lincoln Theatre opened Tuesday, November 23, 1915 as Massillon’s new movie house built by Massillonian John McLain and Canton architect Guy Tilden. It was considered the finest moving picture house in Ohio. The theatre was managed by F. C. Kelly and showcased the films of the Triangular Film Corporation.
The Shine Bros. took over the theatre in 1927 and installed a Style EX Opus 1560 Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ. In 1931,the theatre management changed to the Warner Brothers and the Wurlitzer theatre organ was removed in 1938.
Closed as a movie house in 1975, it was later purchased by the Massillon Industrial Development Foundation and the Ten Star Theatre in 1977. The Lions Club of Massillon purchased the delapidated theatre in 1982 to save it from demolition. Major renovations by the Lions have helped to preserve this historic landmark.
Weekly movies and community events are presented and the theatre is staffed by Lions Club volunteers.
