Traveling back to old theater days, North's History of Augusta provides this tidbit: "Two or three creditable performances for a number of weeks were well patronized in 1819 in a barn at Hinckley Plains. The performers did well and the barn was well patronized. One of the performances earned money for the destitute poor of Hallowell. The sum of $57 was given to the overseer of the town."

A study of that time period reveals that Augusta residents had no interest in the theater, partly because of stern Puritan principals instilled by early settlers. Pioneer life also left no excess money or energy for such pleasures.

In 1829, however, the Boston Company came to the area with the feeling that people would appreciate a parade announcing its upcoming performance. An elephant, other animals, clowns and a music machine aroused interest.

Another year brought on more animals. North recorded in 1833 that these animals were on exhibit at the Dillingham Hotel. The Kennebec Journal observed "it was a fine treat for the student of Natural History."

Two years later 40 carriages drawn by 120 horses arrived in Augusta. North then wrote about how Augustans enjoyed the shows that came to their town. It was about this time that officials began searching for an entertainment hall. The first, called Winthrop Hall, was located at the bottom of Winthrop Street.

The hall was fine for lectures, debates and meetings, but to attract a larger audience, a bigger hall was needed. In 1856, Augusta boasted of a hall on Water Street called the Meonian Hall. It was a four-story building with businesses on the first floor. Offices and a public auditorium with stage and seats for a large crowd were housed on the top floors.

That building was destroyed in 1865 in Augusta's great Water Street fire. Although gone, the popularity of Meonian Hall was brought back through reconstruction. Across the street, at the corner of Haymarket Square, the grandest theater was being constructed.

The elegant hall was dedicated in 1866. The Augusta Quartet sang an original ode by Mrs. C.R. Moor, who wrote: "Now we come with hearts elate, to claim for city or state, a nobler structure grandly planned, whose granite walls may ages stand."

Unfortunately, the beautiful granite building was ruined by fire, only to be rebuilt 24 years later. Four years passed and another fire destroyed the building. In the1930s, the Capital Theater was built. It became a Mecca for live entertainment.

In the meantime, movies were making their debut in a converted stable -- site of the old Colonial Theater. When it became a movie house, Augusta became a movie center with the arrival of Mary Astor movies.

In days gone by, farmers and mill workers enjoyed a mini vacation when 25 cents would take them away on a relaxing mental trip.

Cay Gallant is reachable at 385 Western Ave., Augusta 04330 and by e-mail at galrick2@mainester.net