Get to know the history of Monroe homes by visiting the Monroe Historical Society. Founded in 1976, the society houses its collection in the original City Hall, a historic part of Monroe real estate. A fascinating new artifact was added to the museum’s collection in October. The upright piano that was played in Monroe’s movie theaters during the era of silent films has been tuned and installed. Nellie Johnson Blakeslee was the piano player for many years, performing during silent films at theaters around the city. Museum director Chris Bee has been collecting and displaying Information about the old Avalon Theater adjacent to the piano. The theater opened in 1929 and showed the first “talkie” in 1930.
Tour Historic Monroe Real Estate
The historical society invites everyone from Monroe homes to visit the museum and browse the artifacts. It’s located at 207 East Main Street and is open Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. New volunteers are always welcome, as are new artifacts from the city’s past. Another way to experience Monroe’s history is to take the self-guided walking tour. The historical society has published a free pamphlet that contains photos of historic sites to compare with how they look today. Pick up a copy at the museum or download it at the society’s website. Be sure to visit the Monroe Historical Society online, where you can read articles on the settlement and development of the area and see many photographs that bring the past to life.
