Schick Opera House

The opera house belonged to a burst of town building after the railroad came. Plainview's other early cultural institutions included a brass band organized by Albert G. Hinn, and by 1925 the city had 7,500 people, numerous industries and, by one count, 50,000 shade trees. Unlike many South Plains cities, it rested almost wholly on agriculture. Later generations added their own gatherings: by the 1980s the calendar held Pioneer Round-Up Day in May, a June rodeo and the High Plains Cotton Festival in October.

What the plaque says

Schick Opera House Businessman Levi Schick (1855-1936) launched the Schick Opera House in this building on Oct. 11, 1909. A traveling opera company opened the facility with a performance of "Little Dollie Dimples". Later attractions included vaudeville acts, musical programs, and plays. The opera house also served as a showcase for local talent and a site of public gatherings, such as graduation ceremonies. Known for its fine acoustics, the auditorium seated about 900 persons. Schick Opera House remained this area's cultural center until about 1920, when competition from motion pictures caused its decline. 1977

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Former Office Site of Texas Land & Development Company — steps away
• Colonel C. C. Slaughter — steps away
• The Old MacKenzie Trail — steps away
• Plainview Daily Herald — steps away