History of the Ritz Theatre

Compiled by Judith W. Nation

August 1908 – The beginning date of much theatrical history in Waycross, GA. Mrs. Bessie Beach Buchanon purchased the Pendleton and Parker Street properties from R.T. Smith and Beach Investment Co. Her purchase included an office building on the corner of

Parker and Mary Street, and Mary Street and Pendleton. At the corner was an office, next a jewelry store, and a tailor shop. This area remained unchanged until 1912. (See map of area)

All four units were torn down to make room for a new building to be known as the Grand Theatre. This area is now the Pond View Restaurant and the Ritz Theatre.

January 3, 1913 – The Waycross Daily-Journal newspaper carried a front page story, “Opening of New Theatre, January 9”. The article noted that the play “Baby Mine”, one of the biggest comedy successes of New York would be the attraction.

The newest theatre in Waycross definitely lived up to its name of “Grand”. The color scheme of rose and moss green with ivory ceilings was used. The latest in opera seats were used, giving patrons a place to store their hats safely on the wire racks under the seats. The scenery came by rail from Chicago – a car full! The seating capacity was 650 downstairs and 275 in the balcony. Admission for most of the shows was 10c and 15c.

Next door to the theatre was the town’s newest pool hall. The second floor was used as the dressing rooms for the theatre. There are still remnants of the pulley system used to carry the costume trunks through the back window. There was a door at the second story level in the side of the stage. It was bricked up at a later date. There are also signs of a door located at the front of the theatre, again at second floor level.

Prior to the opening of the Grand Theatre, Waycross had the Lyric theatre and the Majestic theatre, both moving picture houses. The Majestic closed when the Grand opened. Mr. Fred Brewer, an alderman, had been the manager of the Majestic. He moved to the new theatre.

Under Mr. Brewer’s guidance, there were always 2 reel movies plus a live show! Vaudeville, plays, musical acts, animal acts, minstrels and movies all gave reasons to have theatre parties that started at the Grand and ended with refreshments at the drugstore.

1914 – Most of the newspapers are missing. It probably was this year that the Mitchell Orchestra joined the staff of the Grand Theatre. In January 1916, they left and went to Troy, Alabama. In May, they returned. In June, their size increased to six members.

April 1, 1915 – The Kozy Theatre opened on the same block as the Grand. It was in a portion of the old Waycross Furniture Store. Their seating capacity was 400.

August 25, 1915 – The Waycross Daily-Journal started helping the Grand. The first effort was a free ticket to the Grand, good for six months, for everyone who found twenty people to subscribe to the paper, prepaid at $4.50 for one year.

1915 was a year of big fires. The LaGrand Hotel at Plant, Tebeau and Jane Streets burned. The estimated loss was a quarter of a million dollars. On December 1st the operator’s room at the Kozy theatre caught fire, leaving minor damage. At that time it was across the street from the Grade on the corner of Mary and Pendleton Streets.

April 26, 1916 – Mr. Brewer announced that he was closing the Grand. The King’s Daughters were supporting the annual Chautaugue week to help them meet hospital expenses. Mr. Brewer did not want to add any competition to this event.

June 6, 1915 – A new reason to go to the Grand: “This theatre is positively the only theatre in the city in a position to keep you cool and comfortable by the means of proper ventilation and suction fans.”

October 7, 1916 – Walker-Hood Furniture store moved from Plant Avenue to Pendleton Street. They were next door to the pool hall. This is now owned by the Waycross Area Community Theatre.

December 23, 1916 – The theatre announced that it was under new management. Mr. J.B. Jackson replaced Mr. Brewer.

March 2, 1917 (Friday) – The Grand became the Orpheum Theatre. It was outfitted with new machines and a $200 Gold Fibre Picture Curtain.

March 15, 1917 – A matinee was held for ladies and children.

March 16, 1917 – A coupon was first published in the newspaper admitting a lady free for the Friday matinee.

May, 1917 – The theatre ad read the Orpheum “is Clean, Cool, Commodious”

July 14, 1917 – The DAR, Lyman Hall chapter, gave information on the money they made at the Orpheum, “The Talking Movie Pictures”. The profit of $38.05 was placed in their war fund.

October 13, 1917 – “Extensive improvement to the Orpheum Theatre” was begun. The new manager, Mr. Buchanan, is to install steam heat and make this one of the nicest theatres in this section of Georgia.

October 19, 191 – The reality of war hit home. The manager announced that effective November 1, there would be 1c for ever 10c or fraction thereof – “Uncle Sam says we must collect 1c was tax, so bring your penny. Admission still 5c and 10c”.

December 19, 1917 – “House will be well heated” said ad in the paper.

December 22, 1917 – Daredevil Rich was at the Orpheum. The DAR received some of the receipts to help in their war effort of buying a new ambulance to be sent to France.

January 18-19, 1918 – “The Birth of a Nation” made a return engagement. It was seen by one of the largest audiences ever in the Orpheum. This movie returned many times through the years. Mrs. Inez (Sam) Sheppard was interviewed on November 18, 1987. She said that she gave up movies for Lent when she was a child. The week of Lent, this movie returned, so she missed seeing it! She also remembered the orchestra sitting in the center seats of the house, rows 1 and 2.

March 21 & 28, 1918 – The DAR continued raising funds for the Red Cross ambulance. They held a “Womanless Wedding” to help them do this.

October 12, 1918 – The Lyric Theatre, located in the Bunn Building closed. It reopened in 1920.

October 12, 1918 – Mr. Sam Wright, Mayor of Waycross, sent out an official notice to the paper. All public meeting places were to be closed – pool halls, theatres, schools, churchs, in-door meetings and meeting the trains due to the epidemic influenza spreading over the country.

November 8, 1918 – Movie ads carried the notice “Orpheum & Lyric Theatres have been thoroughly disinfected by City Physician”.

April 16, 1919 – Continuing their public service policy, the Orpheum manager, Mr. Brandenburg, invited Churchwell’s Department Store to hold a fashion show for the ladies. Each woman received her own copy of “Tailored Woman”. It showed the “better styles of today”.

April 1919 – The admission price went to 10c and 15c due to more war taxes being placed on theatres. This did not deprive any of the plays and vaudeville shows for large audiences.

1920 – The plays migrated from New York. The casts became much larger than earlier years.

March 5, 1920 – Lister Lester, a musical show had 47 cast members.

March 13, 1920 – A special feature was offered. The second feature was a movie which was shown all week. “Who’s Who in Waycross” had citizens of our fair city, but all had their backs to the camera. Prizes of $25.00 in gold pieces were an incentive to try to name the citizens in the film.

October 19, 1920 – The new manager of the Orpheum and Lyric Theatres was named. Mr. A.E. Johnson promised “that he will give good show” in keeping up the standard and improve whenever possible.

November 16, 1920 – According to the movie ad, the Orpheum was “a nice, warm, comfortable theatre with the best show on the road”. Mr. Johnson hired a violinist to add to the Maas and Maas Orchestra, which played at the Orpheum.

December 1920 – The Elks Club again used the Orpheum Theatre for their Annual Memorial Service.

January 1921 – The ads read “Good Music – Well Ventilated – Comfortable Heated”.

January 10, 1921 – Over 1000 people saw the current show. Many were forced to remain in the lobby until the first show was over.

June 1921 – “Quick Silver”, a musical extravaganza, featured 100 citizens of Waycross with the cast. Great movies and entertainment continued all year.

September 1921 – The Shrine Minstrel presented their annual show.

September 30, 1921 – Waycross citizens could, for the first time, see actual film of World War I.

October 28, 1921 – Frank D. Adams assumed the position of manager of the Orpheum and Lyric Theatres.

November 17, 1921 – The American Legion sponsored the movie “A Man Without a Country”. The theatre was totally filled, including those who stood along the walls. There was mention that there were as many people waiting outside to see the second showing as there were in the theatre. Not bad, from a population of 18,000+ with several other theatres to add competition!

1922 – All of the newspapers were lost.

August 5, 1923 - An item of interest, especially to those who in their teen years went to the movies with a “beau”. A young man and his girlfriend went to the Orpheum balcony.

The newspaper article stated that he was taken to the fire station bastile to give time to think about his actions. The city fathers did not like any public displays of affection anywhere.

1924 – The newspaper continued the support of the Orpheum. If you found your address in the “Rooms for Rent” section of the want ads, you could get a free ticket to go to the theatre.

October 2, 1924 – Jacobson’s followed Churchwell’s lead by presenting a fall fashion show at the Orpheum.

December 15 and 21, 1924 – The Elks Club held a “Charity Matinee”. The admission was toys, food or silver. On the 15th, 909 people attended. The donated 400-500 toys plus money. On the 21st, approximately 1000 people attended. They brought hundreds of pounds of food, toys, clothing and silver. All proceeds went to give underprivileged children a Christmas that they would not have had!

March 3, 1925 – The newest theatre in Waycross opened. The Lyric Theatre is located on the corner of Mary St. and Tebeau St. The Amusement Co., owned by Mr. L.B. Harrell and Mr. A.R. Hood built this. The Orpheum Orchestra became the Lyric Orchestra.

March 23 and 24, 1925 – Three local women would not forget this time. Miss Louise Breen, Miss Sara Cox, and Mrs. A.R. Mann appeared as bridesmaids in a play with the traveling company of “Abie’s Irish Rose”.

March 1926 – Mr. L.B. Harrell purchased Mr. A.R. Hood’s interest in The Amusement Co., becoming the sole proprietor.

June through September – no newspapers available.

A new item was added to the programs at the Orpheum. Fox News was added. They covered the Georgia Tech Football game of last week.

December 1926 – The Elks Club was so successful last year, they decided to do it again. This time the Charity Matinee was held at both the Orpheum and the Lyric.

August 1, 1927 – There was another disastrous fire. Every building except the Orpheum and the adjoining pool hall was totally destroyed. Once again, losses amounted to a quarter million dollars. The fire wall saved the theatre.

February 3 and 10, 1928 – The Isabella Street School PTA produced the “Comic Streets Wedding”. It was performed at the Orpheum and they had to turn away many citizens. It was repeated on the 10th, again with a full house!

March 1928 – Mr. Adams resigned as manager. Mr. Love B. Harrell, nephew of Mr. L.B. Harrell, moved from Macon to take his place.

March 19 through 23, 1928 – A new usage of the theatre was found. Free cooking lectures were given. It was announced that the current seating capacity of the Orpheum was 800, and it was to be remodeled.

April 12, 1928 – The University of Georgia Glee Club and Band gave a performance at the Orpheum. Mack Barnes, Ennis Parker, and Bill Sharpe of Waycross were in the program.

December 1928 – Richards – America’s Master Magician brought his show to the Orpheum. He advertised that a real, live human baby would be given away free to someone in the audience on the last night. The next newspaper is missing. Upon checking with a local attorney, he said that this could have happened. This was during a time when many young mothers had children they could not care for due to husbands being killed or injured in the war.

January 6 through 16, 1929 – The influenza ban was posted and no gatherings at any public place was allowed.

January 17, 1929 – Theatres were allowed to reopen.

January 21, 1929 – The schools were reopened.

April 1, 1929 – the Orpheum has a new orchestra.

June 17, 1929 – Local dance instructor, Anita Abbott, held her dance recital at the Orpheum.

August 17, 1929 – Georgia Motion Picture Theatre Owners and Operators are meeting soon. Many theatres are on the verge of bankruptcy due to revolutionary changes in sound equipment. Mr. Love Harrell was Secretary-Treasurer for this group. He said “Theatres face grave positions”.

September 9, 1929 – Mr. L.B. Harrell was elected as all – time executive Secretary-Treasurer of Theatre Owners. Mr. Blum, new manager of the Recreational Billiard Parlor (located next to the Orpheum) stated that all games were free!

December 16, 1929 – “Tired Shoppers Invited to rest at the theatres”.

March 31, 1930 – Mr. I.L. Shields became manager of the Orpheum and Lyric Theatres.

April 1930 – The United Theatre Enterprises are now operating the Publix Theatres. The Orpheum was open Wed-Sat and the Lyric was open Mon-Sat. Not all movies had sound. Now, a picture with a comedy serial every week. The day after it was shown, the serials’ entire text was published in the local paper.

August 1930 – Movies with Sound!!

September 15, 1930 – New theatre manager was Mr. Milton Kress.

September 24, 1930 – First ad at the Orpheum as a Publix Corp. Theatre, under direction of Lucas and Jenkins.

October 30, 1930 - Mr. H.M. King, manager of the theatres, but no notice was found of when he started in this job.

December 12, 1930 – “A Christmas Fantasy”, an operetta with more than 100 Waycross school children, under the direction of Miss Isabella Smith, was produced. It was under the auspices of the Waycross Women’s Club. At $0.35 and $0.50 admission prices, it was so popular that it was again performed 12/1.

1931 – The theatres were no longer under the Publix Corp. Mr. Lucas and Mr. Jenkins became the directors of the theatres. The marquee at the Orpheum had an oval section in the middle front containing a dark green map of Georgia, with bright yellow L&J in the center. In the process of cleaning and painting the theatre a few years ago, it was discovered that it was still there, now under the “R” in the oval!

1932 through 1934 – There were movies at the Orpheum. The only change was a raise of admission to $0.25 matinee, $0.30 night and $0.10 children.

December 1934 – Movie censorship tightened up!

April 22, 1935 – A large ad in the newspaper for “Harry’s, Waycross’ newest place to eat and refresh. Located at 314 Pendleton St., opposite to the new (Ritz) theatre, soon to open”.

May 21, 1935 – Even though the theatre had been remodeled many times since 1913, this was the first massive coverage of the remodeling effort. Every business that had anything to do with the update had an ad in the paper. From this time until today, the name has remained “Ritz”. The first movie shown was “Ruggles of Red Gap” starring Charles Laughton and ZaZu Pitts. Harry’s gave ladies over 18 years a free mirror. The Breezy Lunch Garden next to the theatre gave free sandwiches, if you purchased a beer. The first

admission ticket was auctioned off for the benefit of the local children’s home. It was sold, given back for resale and raised $81.00!! The new manager was Mr. W.L. Wilson.

June 15, 1935 – The name change did not change the theatre involvement in the community. R. L. Walker had a newspaper ad for Mae West’s “Going to Town”. Everyone who called his business Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were given a ticket for the movie and then the free ticket owners were picked up and taken to the Orpheum to see the matinee the day they won the ticket.

Also, in June, the Waycross Journal-Herald helped. Every day the “Reckless” played, the police gave five license numbers to the paper. They were scattered in the Want Ad section. Those who found their number only had to show their license to be admitted into the theatre.

October 31, 1936 – The first stage performance was seen. “15 Maiden Lane” was the movie that was shown. As part of the annual Halloween Party, a variety show with local citizens was performed. Prizes were awarded for the best costumes.

December 25, 1935 – The two movie per week plan was put into effect. One ran Monday – Wednesday, the second Friday – Saturday. All were first-run movies.

May, 1936 – For those of us who grew up with television, it is hard to believe one of the movies shown at the Ritz was “The Coronation of King George VI & Queen Elizabeth” it was “the most magnificent spectacle of the 20th century.”

Larry Pedrick, jr. and Perry Herrin were a two of the local folks lucky enough to win free tickets to the Ritz early in 1938.

March 29, 1938 – A coloring contest was begun. The subject was “Snow White”. The prizes were two Snow White dolls and the next 20 children won free tickets to see “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

May 31, 1938 – “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” opened at the Ritz. It was Disney’s first Technicolor movie. The morning shows were for school children who were bused in from Clinch, Pierce and Ware Counties. For many, it was the time they had ever been to a movie! Waycross was the first Southeastern town to show the film.

September 27, 1939 – The first showing of “The Wizard of Oz” opened at the Ritz.

December 13, 1939 – “Gone With the Wind” had it’s World Premiere in Atlanta, GA.

March 18, 1940 – “Gone With the Wind” came to the Ritz for the first time. It ran three times a day. It was noted that Waycross was one of the first cities of its size in the nation to get this picture. The population of Waycross at that time was 16,620.

June 26, 1940 – A midnight benefit show was held at the Ritz. “The entire proceeds will go to the Red Cross, 100% for the European War Relief.”

March 3, 1941 – “Gone With the Wind” returned for a three day run. The Ritz and Lyric Theatres urged their patrons to “take your change in defense stamps”.

October 23, 1941 – The world premiere of “Swamp Water”, filmed in the Okefenokee Swamp. The Waycross Journal-Herald even published a souvenir edition of the paper that covered all of the events of the premier.

November 5, 1941 – Ritz patrons could see an extra movie reel that covered the premiere “as it happened at the Ritz”.

November 18, 1941 – The monetary benefits of the premiere was released. “It brings a half million dollars and publicity to enterprising Waycross”. Lamar Swift, manager of the Ritz, stretched the original run from 3 to 8 days. It was said that Mr. Swift “accomplished what many a big-time exhibitor would gladly give his right arm to put over”. “No stare, only local folks put this over!”

December 8, 1941 – Both theatres were wired into WAYX Radio Station so that patrons of the theatre would be able to hear any major news flashes about World War II.

December 9, 1941 – 10:00 pm – President Roosevelt’s speech was broadcasted at both theatres. Those who went to the Ritz saw a plane of the Waycross unit of Georgia Coastal Patrol mounted on the under side of the marque. The movie was ”Keep ‘em Flying” with Abbott and Costello.

October 28, 1942 – Mr. Swift, manager announced that all men who enlisted in the Marines in this two week period would be guests of the theatres. They were given a dinner party and were given free admission to a theatre before they left for Parris Island, S.C. for recruitment training.

November, 1942 – The Ritz lobby became the Marine Recruitment office from 3:00 pm until closing for the week of November 11. “Wake Island” was the movie being shown.

1943 – Was just the beginning of services for the war effort that the theatres performed. Recruitment, War Bond sales, speakers, tine can collection, aluminum and scrap metal collection and encouraging patrons to “Save Gas”.

The government had placed a ban on all unnessesary gas consumption. Mr. Lucas and Mr. Jenkins added to the movie ads “Make every drop of gas count!” and “Don’t let gas rationing keep you home – your nearest movie isn’t far.”

April 7, 1943 – Red Cross weeks at the theatres. $1225.30 was collected for help during the war.

June 10, 1943 – Mr. Theron M. Croxton was now the manager of the Lucas & Jenkins Theatres, the Ritz and Lyric.

January, 1944 – The Ritz was “the House of Big Hits” and the Lyric was “Where Happiness Costs So Little”.

January 18, 1944 – The fourth War Bond Campaign was started. “Sell a Bond for Every Seat”. A War Bond booth was set up in the Ritz lobby from 4:00-10:00 every day. A “Kiddie Club” discount was started after the January 22 performance.

February 2, 1944 – The Ritz raised $457.79 for the March of Dimes campaign.

March 23-29, 1944 – Red Cross Week raised $1,961.96 at the theatres.

April 4, 1944 – Mr. Croxton was promoted and transferred to Columbus. Mr. Elliott Yarbrough a Lifelong resident and business owner in Waycross assumed managership of the Lucas & Jenkins theatres in Waycross.

May 25, 1944 – The American Legion, Post 10, of Ware County , began a Wall of Honor on the side of the Ritz Theatre. The Ware County service men had their names applied to the wall. It remained for many years, until the theatre was painted again. Many citizens today can remember reading the names, looking for friends or family members.

May 30, 1944 – A new policy was begun at the Ritz. Every Thursday morning at 10:15 am, the theatre opened with “continuous showings for the benefit of movie fans – War workers, swing shift workers, housewives, children (now that school is out) and other Unable to attend our usual regular showings.”

June 6, 1944 – Prior to the opening of “The Phantom Lady” on Thursday and Friday, citizens were told to “Meet the Phantom Lady on the streets of Waycross, between 6 & 9 pm. She will talk to you and will be giving out free passes to the Ritz to see the movie.”

June 12, 1944 – The beginning of the fifth War Bond campaign. The theatres continued to sell war bonds and stamps.

December 24, 1944 – An article about the annual Christmas party for theatre employees noted that Mr. John Harrison was the manager in 1944. Some papers are missing, so his appointment was missed.

February 26, 1945 – A new effect of the war hits home. The note on the theatre ads were “Don’t let the ‘Brown-out’ make you blue! Our outside lights may be low, but inside the show is bright, colorful and the spirit is still high.”

July 3, 1945 – The Ritz is “Cool-Comfortable”

August 14, 1945 – Headline “WAR IS OVER!”

October 18, 1945 – Hours of the theatre operation changed. There were shows at 1:00 pm & 6:00 pm.

October 20, 1945 – The Ritz started selling Victory Bonds.

November 4, 1945 – Tot’s Toggery sponsored a Fashion Show to complement the movie “Junior Miss” at 9:00 pm.

November 6, 1945 – Ground-breaking for the Carver Theatre on Oak Street. It will have a seating capacity of 700, giving the black community their own theatre, instead of the balconies of the other theatres.

November 20, 1945 – A front page story covered a “Children’s Premiere” to boost bond sales. On Saturday morning, the Abbott and Costello movie “In Hollywood” was shown; also cartoons. Every child who sold a war bond was admitted free. Free drinks and popcorn were furnished by Dr. Pepper and Bibb’s Bakery. This event was for all children through the eighth grade. A capital prize of $25.00 was given to the child who sold the most bonds.

December 9, 1945 – Miss Florence Beaton was chosen as “Queen for the Day”. She had a morning parade, then she and her friends had a ride on a fire truck, followed by lunch at the Green Frog. She received her crown on the Ritz stage at 9:00 p.m. DeShazo’s Florist gave her a corsage. All of this because Beta Sigma Phi sold $62,050 in bonds!

1946 – Ware County quota for selling bonds was set at $295, 000.

January 10, 1946 – Final total for E bonds reached $296,105! So typical of the citizens of our fair city.

May 31, 1946 – The Ritz held a contest for grammar school children. They wrote an essay on “What I Like Best About Summer Vacation.” Marlene Bennett from Isabella Street School won first prize, a bicycle; Bobby Davis, Quarterman Street School, second prize, and Joy Dale Moore, Isabella Street School, third prize – a tennis racquet. The judges were Miss Mary Lane, Miss Evelyn O’Neal and Dr. Ralph Newton.

June 7, 1946 – A special food matinee was held at the Ritz in cooperation with the Emergency Food Collection. For a donation of food packed in tin, the children saw eight cartoons and one comedy.

September 22 & 29, 1946 – The theatre, in recognition of a city-wide revival, conducted by the Waycross Ministerial Association, chose to close both Sudays.

October 23, 1946 – “Parents bring your children to the Ritz Saturday morning at 9:00 am to see pictures selected and approved by the P.T.A. All seats 25c”

November 10, 1946 – On the front page was an article “Ritz and Lyric Theatres Are Being Remodeled”. The Ritz was completely remodeled inside with new wall covering. It was painted and new seats were to be installed within the next ten days.

November 22, 1946 – The Carver Theatre opened. Charlie Brock, the long – time Lyric balcony manager was promoted to the position of the Carver Manager. This opening was well – covered by the newspaper.

November 27, 1946 – Plans were being made for a Deluxe Theatre to replace either the Ritz or Lyric, probably the Ritz!

December 20, 1946 – Football fans flocked to the Ritz to see a unique feature, “Football Thrills of 1946”. It was a 20 minute film of the most exciting moments of 12 of the nation’s best football games!

April 15, 1947 – Tex Ritter was at the Ware Tire Co. to meet fans and sign any of his records sold. He then went to the Lyric with his horse, “White Flash” and his Western and Hillbilly Band to perform.

May 23, 1947 – “The Farmer’s Daughter” came to the Ritz. Just prior to this, there was a beauty contest of girls who were members of the 4H Club. The winner was given a $25.00 savings bond. The movie ad read “What this country needs is more farmers’ daughters”. The Queen was crowned on stage of the Ritz at 9 p.m. Also on the program was Tommy Tucker and Orchestra.

November 9-13, 1947 – “Welcome Stranger” came to the Ritz. The Chamber of Commerce and city merchants banded together for this. They ran a movie banner across Mary St. at Plant Ave. Strangers were stopped and given free tickets to the movie. Mayor Bailey stated that “the city’s latchkey hangs on the outside” policy of the chamber of Commerce.

“Effective Christmas Day, the Ritz and the Lyric policies will be changed. The Ritz movies will be shown at the Lyric and the movies of the Lyric will go to the Ritz”. Mr. Kenny Dakin, who worked at the theatres many years and replaced Mr. John Harrison as city manager, was questioned about this. He said that if a town had more than one theatre, one was designated as the “A” house and the other the “B” house. The “A” house received the first – run movies; the “B’ received reruns. Through the years, the designation moved between the two theatres, according to the latest remodel and update of the theatres.

1948 began the trend of cowboys and country singers at the Ritz, live and in movies.

January 6, 1948 – Ernest Tubb and his “Grand Old Opry” show from WSM, Nashville, TN performed.

March 24, 1948 – Al “Lash” LaRue, in person with his stage show. He had appeared at the Orpheum when he was a child. At that time, he was with his family and his horse and whip.

June 29, 1948 – “Enjoy a good show in air-conditioned comfort”.

July 9, 1948 – Two children admitted on one ticket until 3 p.m. A new serial, “Sea Hounds” started. The children were given cards and when 14 punches were on it, they got in free to see episode 15.

October 11, 1948 - “Spirit of West Point”, and the band in the park.

February 7, 1949 – Smiley Burnett and his cowboy troupe played at the Ritz. Employees remember that between shows, Mr. Burnett would sleep backstage on a cot.

April 11-12. 1949 – Sir Lawrence Olivier as ‘Hamlet’, an Oscar winning performance sold to reserved seats only. The tickets went on sale 3 weeks before the movie came.

May 25, 1949 – Smokie Strickland and his North State Playboys, billed as “Internationally known star of stage and radio”. It was a black – face minstrel. Admission was $0.25 or $0.50.

June 22, 1949 – Double features began every Thursday as the Ritz.

July 2, 1949 – “Spend a cool weekend and 4th of July in our air – conditioned theatres”. “Play it safe on the 4th of July – see a good movie at the Ritz and Lyric”.

August 11, 1949 – Margaret Mitchell died.

August 27, 1949 – “Gone With the Wind” returned by popular demand for two days.

September 24, 1949 – Johnny Mack Brown at the Ritz for a special Kiddies Club. He gave autographs after the stage show.

November, 1949 – “Family Month”

November 9, 1949 – Children admitted free with parents, which was designated as “Family Day at the Ritz”.

November 14, 1949 – A new contest! Guess how many grains of corn in the turkey, displayed in front of the Ritz, will eat from the 14th to the 22nd. The closest guess wins. The turkey was donated by Howard’s Poultry Market. The winner was announced from the stage at 9 p.m. You did not have to be present to win. Register in the Ritz lobby.

December, 1949 – Double features every day except Sunday.

January 21, 1950 – A percentage of the Sunday night movies was given to the city treasury for the recreational program. Previously, it was given to the Boosters Club for Midget Athletic Fund, now part of the Waycross recreational Program.

January 27, 1950 – “On stage, ‘Boots’ Woodalls Radio Wranglers! Comedy! Music! Song! Admission: child $0.25, adult matinee $0.50, adult night $0.55.

February 22, 1950 – On stage in person: “The screen’s funniest comedian in a big – time laugh show, Al “Fuzzy” St. John and his Musical Rangers. Fun for the whole family!

February 24, 1950 – U.S.-1 Drive-In under construction on a 12 acre site for 500 cars.

April 4, 1950 – Mr. Harrison predicts that the movies of 1950 will be better than ever.

April, 1950 – William Elliott was the Ritz manager.

April 6, 1950 – All children got an autographed picture Hopalong Cassidy after the movie.

April 7, 1950 – William Jenkins, President of Georgia Theatre Company, stated that “pictures shown in Georgia Theatre Company movie houses must measure up to high ‘moral standards’”.

October 6, 1950 – the Ritz closed for another remodel job. It re-opened October 8. “Remodeled! And bringing you first-run motion pictures”. The U.S.- 1 Drive-In ran their first ad.

The schedule for first – run movies were Sunday and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday was a return of big pictures and Saturday was a double feature. “Comfortable seats, concession bar with fountain and late shows on Sunday nights!” Admission was $0.40 Monday – Friday matinee, $0.44 nights, Saturday $0.40, Sunday $0.44, children were $0.14.

October 10, 1950 – Waycross Drive-In Theatre on Brunswick Highway opens, 5 blocks past the ball park.

February 1, 1951 – Hank Snow, star of the “Grand Old Opry”, with his Rainbow Ranch Boys at the Ritz for four big shows.

February 22, 1951 – Waycross starts the campaign to win the world premier of “Queen for a Day”.

March 3, 1951 – On stage, direct from Nashville, TN, in person, Lonzo and Oscar, the nutty saps from Goober Patch, with cousin Jody Sammy Tommy Warren.

March 14, 1951 – On the Ritz stage, in person, the singing star of “I’d Climb the Highest Mountain”, George “Sleepy” Head and his Blue Ridge Mountain Boys.

March 17, 1951 – Cooperation Pays Off! Waycross won the contest to have the world premier of “Queen for a Day”. Everyone who entered a theatre was given a postcard, ready to mail, except for individual signatures. From a town whose census was 18,883, we mailed over 32,000 cards!

April 14, 1951 – The football stadium was packed for a special “Queen for a Day” show in order to choose the Queen from this area. At 8p.m., the world premier was held at the Lyric. The movie went to the Ritz for Sunday and Monday. The Carver had a simultaneous premier with the Lyric on Saturday.

April 28, 1951 – “Why not treat the family to a good movie over the weekend! Make it a family get – together. The children will be thrilled to go with Dad and Mother will enjoy a movie at her favorite theatre”.

June 8, 1951 – On stage, Whip Wilson, America’s favorite fighten’ cowboy star and his Flying W Roundup and the Flying W Ranch Hands. Boys and girls received a free color

picture which was autographed. There was also a movie shown between each show. Admission: children $0.25, adult matinee $0.55, adult evening $0.60.

November 20, 1951 – On stage “Striking! Startling! Staggering!” In person, Ormund McGill and his East Indian Miracles – A pageant of bewildering illusion! Three shows plus the movie “Calamity Jane”.

January 1, 1952 – Waycross awarded the honor of hosting the world premier of a swamp film, “Land of the Trembling Earth”, written by Dave Dalie; a 20 minute film.

January 25, 1952 – A $0.45 bargain! Two first run movies.

February 6, 1952 – On stage – Bill Monroe and the Famous Bluegrass Quartette, the Bluegrass Boys.

March 27, 1952 – T. Texas Tyler and his Western Musical Revue - Thursday only: the live show plus a movie.

April 3, 1952 – Premier personal appearance of Dynamic Don “Rep” Barry and his Hollywood Show. “Hollywood’s top action star! Now you can meet him in person”.

April 12, 1952 – (Saturday) “Attend the church of your choice Sunday! Then, parade the whole family in their Easter bonnet to the Lyric, Ritz or U.S. 1 Drive-In to see a good movie”.

April 17, 1952 – Orson Wells in “MacBeth” – a royal show at popular prices.

May 24, 1952 – Picture of the U.S.-1 Drive-In and article about the reopening.

July 16, 1952 –World premiere of “Lure of the Wilderness”. Saturday admission downstairs $2.45, balcony $1.99; then $0.55 for Lyric and Ritz; $0.50 at the Carver. The Waycross Journal – Herald ran a special edition for full coverage of the premier and all events due to it.

September 13, 1952 – Mr. John Harrison received the Quigley Showmanship, the highest honor in the motion picture industry. He received this because of the work he did to get the world premier of “Lure of the Wilderness” to Waycross. Ava Gardner presented the award to him.

December 13, 1952 – The first notice of student discount cards for reduced admission to the movies. They were on sale at the box offices.

December 20, 1952 – One can of vegetables or fruit was a child’s admission to the Ritz between 10:30 a.m. – noon. The canned goods were given to the Salvation Army for Christmas distribution.

February 28, 1953 – New hours of operation of the Ritz were given. Monday – Friday 6:30 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m., Sunday 12:45 p.m. and 8:40 p.m.

March 28, 1953 – The Ritz returned to the old hours of operation. The box office opened at 2:45 p.m. and the programs started at 3:00 p.m.

April 2, 1953 – the Georgia Theatre Company celebrated its 25th anniversary.

May 5, 1953 – “Lure of the Wilderness” back by popular demand.

May 26, 1953 – Freddie Crosby, assistant manager at the Lyric, will be the Ritz manager after he graduates from Waycross High School in June.

June 29 – July 1, 1953 – “Reaching from Heaven” was seen by 2,536 people at the Ritz. “All agree it’s the best picture ever seen in Waycross”.

July 7, 1953 – Mrs. Hank Williams, “the lovely widow of the world’s greatest folk singer. Hear her sing the songs Hank wrote for her”. Appearing with her was Paul Howard, the “Arkansas cotton – picker” formally with WSM Grand Old Opry.

August 8, 1953 – “Reaching from Heaven” back by popular demand. It will be at the U.S.1 Drive-In on Monday and Tuesday.

November 27, 1953 – 10 a.m. – One show only – “The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Only 650 tickets available, all at $0.55 each. It was filmed in Technicolor and narrated by Sir Lawrence Olivier.

June 24, 1954 – “The Robe”, a Cinema Scope Film, opened at the Ritz for five days. There was an informational ad that showed the difference of this method of filming and the old method of color filming. Admission: child $0.25, student $0.52, adult $0.75.

December 5, 1955 – “Due to shortage of film release and new contracts being negotiated, the Ritz will operate only Friday – Sunday for December and January 1956”.

June 10, 1956 – “Today only” opera cast in “Aida”. Admission: child $0.35, students $0.52, adults matinee $0.65, adult night $0.75.

April 23, 1958 – A large ad for the Ritz – a special 3 hour program for children on Saturday, April 26 at 11 a.m. One hour of cartoons, chapter 8 of the weekly serial “Congo

Bill” and two full – length movies. Admission is $0.20. This became the pattern of Saturday mornings for a long period of time.

May 27, 1959 – The first movie that played longer than Friday – Sunday, “The House of Haunted Hill”, the first film using ‘Emergo’. “The thrills fly right off the screen”.

July 4, 1959 – The first time Christmas greetings from the theatres were signed by all the employees of the theatres. Clyde L Tuten, Jr. was the Ritz manager.

May 30 – August 31, 1960 – R.C. Cola Cartoon Show every Saturday morning at 11 a.m. Admission was 12 R.C. Cola caps or $0.20. Free prizes every week from R.C. Cola.

November 11 – 12, 1960 – “10 Unit Show – See for the first time – actual true films – “Killers All” movie of gangsters”. In the exhibit were wax figures, an electric chair, machine guns, and the actual car in which Bonnie and Clyde were killed. All this for admission of: child $0.25, and $0.55 for adults!

January 13, 1961 – the return of the Saturday morning cartoon shows. They had been at the Lyric since September 1960.

January 27 – 28, 1961 – Big cartoon show Friday at 4 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m. Two children were admitted on one $0.20 ticket. “A Dog’s Best Friend” and “The Sad Horse” was the double feature. A better choice than the Lyric where the “R” Rated “Butterfield 8” was playing.

March 3, 1961 – “Ben Hur” began a two week run at the Ritz and Carver. Admission was child $0.52, and adult matinee $0.90, adult night $1.25.

March 22, 1961 – “Gone With the Wind”, after a week at the Lyric, moved to the Ritz for a week.

June 28, 1961 – John Wayne in “The Alamo” to be at the Ritz all week.

February 1, 1962 – “Snow White and the Three Stooges” – Children could go Friday 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm or Saturday at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, two for one admission.

June 10, 1963 – “The Robe” started a four day run at the Ritz. On Sunday, June 10, the theatre started their summer schedule of opening every day.

September 27, 1963 – Three full length movies were on the bill at the Ritz for Friday and Saturday, plus chapter of 4 of “Flash Gordon”.

December 24, 1963 – January 1, 1964 – “Lawrence of Arabia”. Admission : child $0.52, students $0.65.

March 20, 1964 – The Kiddie Kartoon Carnival on every Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the Ritz.

September 21, 1964 – Richard Burton as “Hamlet”, filmed on stage with “Electronovision” to play at the Ritz on September 23rd and 24th. Performances at 3:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. at $2.00 per person.

November 1-2, 1964 – “Three big shows school out fun-o-rama at the Ritz”. Also listed was the movie guide as rated by the PTA and Parents Magazine.

October 1965 – “The T-A-M-I Show” filmed with Electronovision.. For $1.00 admission you could see a concert with current musical stars: Beach Boys, Chuck Berry and many others. It played at the Ritz and Carver.

October 27, 1965 – The LaScala Opera Company was filmed during their performance of “La Boheme”. It was at the Ritz two day, 2 showings per day with a $2.00 admission.

February 2, 1966 – “Those Magnificent Men on Their Flying Machines” – Admission: child $0.75, adult $1.50.

February 25, 1966 – “The Great Race” – Admission: child $0.50, adult $1.25.

March 21, 1966 – Two horror movies at the Ritz. “So scary we dare you to attend – if you have the nerve! You win a free 2 for 1 pass to a future movie”.

April 13, 1966 – World premiere of “Swamp Country”. Many Waycross citizens were in this movie with Dave Dahie and Rex Allen. Look for Morris Johnson, Liston Elkins, Nelson Hitchcock, George Roberts and Cliff Thomas!

July 20 – 26, 1966 - “My Fair Lady”, direct from premier showings.

August 2, 1966 – “The Battle of the Bulge” returned to the Ritz directly from reserved seat showings.

August 10 – 16, 1966 – “Mary Poppins”

August 26 – 29, 1966 – “Sleeping Beauty” and “Snow White”

September 2 – 4, 1966 – “Born Free”

September 8 – 10, 1966 – “Batman”

October – National Movie Month

October 14 – 16, 1966 – “The Gospel According to St. Matthew”

December 26 – 28, 1966 – World Premier Monday at 2:30 p.m. – “A Place for the Dead”, written by Waycross’ own Franklin Smith.

March 16 – April 4, 1967 - “Dr. Zhivago” – no children allowed. Admission: matinee $1.25, evening $1.50.

April 5 – May 10, 1967 – “The Sound of Music”. Admission: child $1.00, adult matinee $1.50, adult evening $1.75.

August 1967 – The summer run of movies ended. Now it’s back to scattered open days, mostly Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

October 1967 – “Theatres Salute 1967 Fall Film Fair”

October 20 – November 9, 1967 – “The Sand Pebbles”, direct from the roadshow engagements. The Ritz opened for this Tuesday – Friday, evening only. Saturday and Sunday were opened for matinee and evening shows, Monday was closed.

December 20 – January 2, 1968 – “The Bible”. No passes were allowed. Admission: child $0.50, adults $1.50.

May 28, 1968 – The Ritz will be closed until Thursday, then it will be open every day.

August 21 – September 24, 1968 – “GoneWith the Wind” returns again. Shows daily at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Admission: child $1.00, adult $2.00.

September 19, 1968 – Rating scale now in effect for movies: G – M – R.

December 30 – January 1, 1969 – The Ritz will be opened all day.

Most movies of 1969 were either ‘R’ rated, horror films, cowboys and a few Nashville stars. A few good films did make an appearance.

March 29, 1969 – “Romeo and Juliett” – Five shows on Sunday and two shows on Monday and Tuesday.

April 2 – 8, 1969 – “Camelot” was shown every day. Admission: child $0.75, adult $1.50.

June 23, 1970 – “A Man Called Horse” – “The most electrifying ritual ever seen!”

June 24 – July 4, 1970 – “M*A*S*H” was ‘R’ rated, no one under 18 years was admitted.

March 20, 1971 – World premier of “The Tender Warrior” at the Lyric. At the Ritz, a first – a fight filmed in color from ringside, Frasier vs. Ali.

March 24, 1971 – “Jud”, a ‘GP’ movie about a Vietnam Veteran.

May 15, 1971 – World premier of “Swamp Girl” was held at the Lyric.

November 23, 1971 – “Graffitti” – the ad said “Ushers are compulsive seaters”.

In both 1970 and 1971, most movies at the Ritz were ‘R’ rated films.

April 1972 – “The Greatest Story Ever Told” and “The Ten Commandments” each ran a week, preceded and followed by ‘R’ rated films.

October 9 – 10, 1972 – “Chato’s Land” with Jack Palance and Charles Bronson.

October 11, 1972 – “Fiddler on the Roof” was at the Ritz for a week. Admission: child $1.00, adult $2.00.

November 1972 – “Gone With the Wind” back again!

January 1, 1973 – The motion pictures at the Lyric were rated ‘G’; the Ritz ‘ R’.

July 11, 1973 – “Walking Tall” was ‘held over for 6th and final week – no one under 17 admitted’. As in the past, with businesses and theatres working together, S&L Sales advertised the book The Twelfth of August, upon which the movie was based. It was $495.

July 18, 1973 – “Held over – Waycrossans Won’t Let It Go!, “Walking Tall”” moved to the US 1 Drive-In from July 25 – August 16; then to the Lyric, August 17 – 30.

April 1974 – Full page ad of the Georgia Theatre Co. noted the Waycross Centennial Week April 26 – May 3. The Ritz ad “Rocking Chair Theatre”

October 1-20, 1974 – A special children’s matinee once again at the Ritz – All seats $1.00.

1975 was another year of reruns, cowboys, horror shows, and “R” rated movies.

October 14, 1976 – No ad for the Lyric; one for each, Cinema I & II, and the Drive-In were there. The note for the Ritz was “Effective October 15, te Ritz will be closed for the winter.”

March 25, 1977 – The Ritz reopened with “A Star is Born”, shown twice daily.

October 26, 1977 – Ritz will reopen Thursday – Saturday.

October 10, 1978 – Ritz was closed on Monday – Thursday, open Friday – Sunday.

February 12, 1979 – Mr. Kenneth Dakin was named city manager, succeeding Mr. John Harrison.

June 11, 1979 – Ritz re-opens

July 5, 1979 – US 1 Drive-In closed due to a serious fire

July 19, 1979 – Richard Pryor “Live in Concert” – uncensored – started for the second week. “Dollar Day Every Tuesday at the Ritz.”

September 6, 1979 – Ritz “closed Tuesday – Thursday; Open Friday – Monday”

September 15, 1979 – Late Show at the Ritz

October 5, 1979 – Grand re-opening of US 1 Drive-In

November 1, 1979 – Every Monday is now dollar night at Ritz which is open Friday-Monday.