4th Ave Theater
One Anchorage landmark that can be found on post cards is sadly being replaced, The 4th Ave Theater
This art deco designed movie theater started it's construction in 1940 but was halted during World War 2. It was completed in 1947.
The theater was designed by B. Marcus Priteca, known for designing many of the Pantages Theaters.
It is a shame that another Priteca designed theater is seeing the wrecking ball but some of the fixtures are being preserved and will be used in the current buildling being constructed at this time.
The building was used as a theatre from 1947-1982 when it was converted into an events center. The building has been vacant for 15 years without repair or maintenance.
When the building opened, a concession stand was never built and was deemed inappropriate (one was built later on).
The artwork created blended well with the art deco interior including the Big Dipper displayed on the ceiling.
In 1960, additions were added to the building to include offices, a radio and television station, and a penthouse. This addition may have saved the building from being damaged in the 1964 earthquake as the concrete foundation was added and reinforced the existing structure.
Some of the photos of 4th Avenue, taken after the earthquake, show the radio tower on top of the theater as it wasn't on he same block where the buildings sank.
(source: Library of Congress archives)