History of the Paramount Theatre at 195 Market Street, Newark, NJ
The Paramount Theatre, located at 195 Market Street in Newark's Four Corners Historic District, was a prominent vaudeville and movie palace that operated for exactly 100 years. Originally built as a vaudeville house, it evolved with changing entertainment trends, underwent multiple renovations, and became a symbol of Newark's vibrant downtown cultural scene before falling into disrepair. Below is a chronological overview of its history. Origins and Early Years (1886–1916) - **Opening (1886):** The theatre opened on October 11, 1886, as **H.C. Miner's Newark Theatre**, named after theater impresario Henry Clay Miner. It was designed as a vaudeville venue and managed by the Brooklyn-based Hyde & Behman Amusement Company. Vaudeville was the dominant form of entertainment at the time, featuring live performances like comedy sketches, music, and acrobatics. - **Ownership and Operations:** After Miner's death in 1900, his family retained control for several years. The the...