Nestled in 512-516 Broadway in Buffalo, New York, Sattler Theater is a historic African American establishment named after John G Sattler. Sattler owned a local Sattler’s Department Store in the area and was a real estate mogul.
Despite the building’s rich history, it now stands dilapidated, a shadow of its former self. This article revisits the history of Sattler Theater, the reasons it was abandoned, and what happened after it was abandoned. It also includes details of whether you can visit the place.
History of Sattler Theater
Construction of Sattler Theater was finalized in 1914 by the Spann brothers, Henry and William. It is said to have cost $35000. Sattler Theater featured a 928 seating plan, concession stand, washrooms, and a Beaux-Arts style with a glazed terra cotta. A dome in the center and a divider wall added to its allure.
At the start, Sattler Theater served its primary function: to showcase silent films and other performances. However, as time passed and various owners came in, it started having different functions, including being a religious establishment. A Marr & Colton two manual organ and a vaudeville stage were all installed at some point.
In 1920, when the theater’s ownership changed hands again, its name changed from Sattler to Broadway Theater. Later on, in the 1920s, it was sold again, this time to the Basil Brothers, who took over its management and renamed it Basil’s Broadway.
After that, in the 60s, it was converted to Muhammad’s Mosque 23. In this era, the building received a lot of acclaim as Malcolm X and Mohammed Ali paid the mosque a visit. Later, it became a temple, where it was God’s Holy Temple in 1976 and Joy Temple Church in 1987.
Its grandeur and intricate design made it popular among the residents of Buffalo. Despite all that, it faced an untimely abandonment in the 1980s. While this is debatable, it is said that the last occupants left in 1996.
Why Was Sattler Theater Abandoned?
As is the fate of almost all single-screen theaters, Sattler Theater was abandoned due to social and economic factors. Although it had dynamic uses, it became less used and eventually abandoned.
In the mid-20th century, multi-screen cinemas were built in suburban areas, luring audiences away from single-screen urban theaters. In contrast to single-screen cinemas, these new shiny multiplex establishments seemed more efficient as they showed multiple movies simultaneously.
The rise of television and later home video formats—VHS and DVD—lessened the demand for local theaters. It seemed more convenient for people to watch films from the comfort of their homes rather than going to the movies.
Suburbanization also played a starring role in the abandonment of Sattler Theater. In the mid-20th century, many moved from urban centers like Buffalo to suburban areas. Affordable housing, improved transportation, and the attractiveness of suburban living enticed people away from urban centers.
Urban theaters like the Sattler lost their core audience base with fewer residents in the surrounding neighborhoods. As people and companies moved to suburban areas, a city like Buffalo suffered a stagnation of business.
Other more extensive and modern facilities with new technology stole business from the Sattler and other small theatres. Theaters offering enhancements, such as sound systems, air conditioning, and seating improvements, lured more patrons away.
Historic buildings like the Sattler Theater are usually costly to maintain. As the revenues fell, the money to keep the theater in good shape probably became unavailable. The cost of upgrading to modern standards, such as converting to digital projection or improving accessibility, was likely not manageable.
What Happened to Sattler Theater After It Was Abandoned?
Sattler Theater was left to its devices after it was abandoned in the late 20th century. The theater suffered massive disrepair: its roof, interior, and façade suffered extensive neglect. Water damage, vandalism, and exposure to elements contributed much to the decay of this building, thus making it increasingly expensive to repair with time.
It had changed hands numerous times over the years, with private and local owners and organizations with plans to rehabilitate it similarly. Some of these owners announced plans to create a community venue or center for culture at that place but later refused to follow through due to limited resources or funds.
The Sattler Theater was identified by local historians and preservation advocates as integral to Buffalo’s cultural history and demanded its restoration. Several campaigns were put in place to ensure this cause was followed.
Over time, Sattler Theater acquired the “Historical Landmark” status. Out of its historical and architectural importance, this identification of the theater gave it some legal protection, possibly with grants available for its restoration.
In the early 21st century, the theater was taken over by Western New York Minority Media Professionals (WNYMMP) for about $40000. This group hoped to restore it to a community-based center for the arts, media, and education.
Despite such ambitions, success has been slower than desired because of funding problems. Historic building restorations require a great deal of expense, including public grants, private donations, and partnership arrangements.
The theater remains a point of interest for Buffalo’s residents and preservationists. It symbolizes the city’s rich history and potential for urban revitalization. Occasional fundraising and awareness events have been held to generate support for its restoration.
Can You Visit Sattler Theater?
Visiting the Sattler Theater is a challenge mainly because of its current condition and ownership status. The theater is not actively used, and its interior is likely unsafe for public entry due to structural issues and deterioration.
Access to the property may be restricted, and you would need permission from the current owner or the organization overseeing the site.
Organizations like the WNYMMP or other local historical groups may organize events or open houses for awareness and restoration. These could offer opportunities to visit the theater.
The façade of the Sattler Theater can be viewed from the street. Despite wear, it still reflects a glimpse of the architectural beauty of its heyday. However, some explorers dare to go near the site despite the questionable structural integrity of the building.
If you are interested in going, it is advisable to contact the local preservation societies or WNYMMP for updates on restoration efforts and possible opportunities for guided tours or volunteer involvement.