The majestic Chevalier Theatre stands before you. A Greek Revival facade hints at the Art Deco treasure within.
This isn’t just a theatre. It’s a Medford landmark a memorial to a hero a piece of living history. Built in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration it was part of the Medford High School complex. Imagine students attending classes in the very building.
The Chevalier Theatre opened in 1940. It was dedicated to Godfrey de Courcelles Chevalier. He was a Medford resident and a World War I naval hero. He was also an aviation pioneer. The theatre hosted countless events. John F Kennedy spoke here. Frank Sinatra and Lou Rawls performed on its stage.
Tragedy struck in 1965. Medford High School burned down. The theatre miraculously survived. It suffered only smoke damage. The new high school was built elsewhere. The Chevalier fell into disuse. It was abandoned. Years of neglect took their toll. Windows were broken. Weeds grew in the cracks.
But hope emerged. In 1981 a volunteer commission began restoring the theatre. They received grants and federal assistance. They upgraded the building. They added elevators and new rigging. They fixed the HVAC system and the facade. They reopened the Chevalier for business. The theatre was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Donations poured in. The Horowitz family gifted a magnificent Marr and Colton theatre pipe organ. They also donated a Chickering reproducing grand piano. A second organ a Wurlitzer was donated by the American Theater Organ Society.
Today the Chevalier Theatre continues its restoration. It is a vibrant venue. It hosts theatrical groups special events and sound recordings. It’s a testament to community spirit. It’s a reminder that even after tragedy beauty and history can endure.