The Motherlode Theatre and Fox Theater - Butte, Montana

1923: The Masonic Bodies built the Temple Theatre

Great Depression: the Masons rent the theater to 20th Century Fox.

Movie industry declines: theater becomes vacant and in need of repair.

1996 The Mother Lode Theatre: Nonprofit formed by citizens raises $3 million and renovates the theater, Masons donate the building to the city. Circa 1940.

Original artwork © Lisa Wareham Photography. Historic image © BSB Archives.