Midland Theater Foundation, Inc.

A slice of Americana.

There has been a recent increased interest in preserving historically significant areas throughout the US. There is an overwhelming desire to save all things Americana; Americana referring to all cultural artifacts, architecture, and history that distinctly reflects the US culture. Coffeyville is a great example of Americana and has plenty to offer in the way of American history.

There are many places in Coffeyville that bring people back to a certain place in time and have served as important land marks in the Coffeyville area. Two places that have been important pieces of Americana and will continue to be are the Alamo Building and the Midland Theater, both located on West 8th Street. The Midland, built in 1928 was the largest of four theatres in town and offered the newest movie technology of the time. This historic theatre was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 for significance in the areas of architecture and recreation/culture. The Alamo Building located directly to the left of the Midland was once the home to a car dealership, beauty school, and various other businesses throughout the years. 

 The plans to renovate the Alamo Building and restore the Midland Theater are elaborate and beautiful. Restoring the Midland will give Coffeyville a place to house community performances, movie showing, and much more. The Alamo will also be an important part of the Coffeyville community as well, becoming a large convention center. This convention center will bring Coffeyville an increased amount of business, because at the present Coffeyville does not have a meeting facility that is capable of holding more than 300 people comfortably. The Alamo, however, will be able to hold up to 1,000 people.  This would not only allow Coffeyville industries and businesses to have a meeting place, it would bring in outside meetings and events as well, which will boost Coffeyville sales. The Alamo will also be able to hold weddings, receptions, parties, and many more events. Building a convention center is a sure sign that Coffeyville is on the fast track to excellence.

The information provided on Community Challenge pages is provided "as is," and the National Trust for Historic Preservation does not make any representations, endorsements, or warranties (either expressed or implied) on any comments, reviews, or suggestions posted. Neither does the National Trust assume responsibility or liability for the same.