The Chautauqua Amphitheater, 1891 (05-14)

Historical narrative

The Chautauqua Amphitheater at Glen Echo was designed by Philadelphia architect Theophilus Parsons Chandler in 1890–91. Construction began in January 1891 and was completed in time for the Chautauqua's opening that June—an extraordinary achievement for a structure measuring approximately 206 feet in diameter. The amphitheater seated about 6,000 people, with room for roughly 2,000 additional temporary seats. Minnehaha Creek flowed beneath the building, and its moving water was ingeniously incorporated into the amphitheater's acoustic system. The cool creek air also helped circulate air through the structure. The amphitheater and grounds were illuminated by electric light, a remarkable modern convenience in 1891. After the Chautauqua closed in 1892, the building hosted vaudeville, concerts, and other large gatherings. During the amusement-park era, it was remodeled as the Midway in 1911 and later converted into a funhouse. The structure eventually disappeared, but its foundations and remnants remain part of Glen Echo's remarkable history.

Watercolor

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