State Theatre Files, 1886-1994 and undated

In 1970, Chesley gathered information for the theatre files through an extensive questionnaire. His original questionnaire requested information on architectural detail and style as well as usage and current condition. He amassed slides, photographs, correspondence, restoration project reports and updates, programs, playbills, and statistical data related to America's historic performance halls. Chesley also collected materials on theatre restoration, including grant forms; National Register of Historic Places inventory forms; nomination forms and materials filed with state historical commissions; blueprints; and correspondence related to renovation. California and New York are the two states most comprehensively documented in the theatre files. The Nevada Theatre (Nevada City, California), the Old Eagle Theatre (Sacramento, California), and the Woodland Opera House (Woodland, California) files provide the most extensive records for individual theatres.

Series I documents historic theatres across the United States through materials gathered by Gene Chesley and his assistants in the creation of the National List of Historic Theatres. The files are arranged alphabetically by state, then by city, then by theatre name. A theatre's original historic name is considered authoritative for filing purposes; however, later names are included when known. Original blueprints and oversized copies of seating plans and drawings can be found in Series III: Blueprints.

Correspondence

Chesley's correspondence includes valuable information on specific theatres and restoration activities and provides considerable detail regarding the creation of the National List of Historic Theatre Buildings. Each theatre file contains information detailing the discovery, identification, and description of a particular theatre. Many files also include updates sent to Chesley by those involved in renovation projects across the country. Correspondence concerning John W. Frick and Carlton Ward's efforts to continue Chesley's work after his death is also included.

Playbills and Programs

Photocopies of original programs and playbills from performances at the theatres dating to the 1800s. Most document 1970s-era performances in newly renovated theatres.

Postcards

Picture postcards that Chesley purchased from the Landmarks Associates Postcard series (HABS Postcard Folio 1978).

Newspaper Clippings

Many files include newspaper articles , primarily from the 1970s, concerning the activities of the theatres, renovation efforts, and stories that spotlight the historical significance of a particular theatre. Local restoration trends and building styles are also covered.

Architectural Drawings

Some files also include copies of seating plans, drawings, and blueprints. Original blueprints and oversized copies of seating plans and drawings can be found in Series III: Blueprints.

Questionnaire: Historical American Theatres

Chesley's survey requested detailed information on each theatre including date established, architectural style, theatre type, current condition (restored, needing restoration), current use, stage dimensions, seating capacity, types of entertainment, and appearances by major stars.

Theatre Information Form

These forms are a later version of Chesley's questionnaire.

Theatre Assessment Form

Form used by Jack Neeson, a theatre consultant and enthusiast, who traveled to a number of theatres in the eastern United States between 1977 and 1979. Neeson completed detailed technical forms on the theatres and took numerous photographs. These forms differ from the questionnaires in that someone with knowledge of theatre history and design completed the forms.

National Register of Historic Places Inventory: Nomination Form

These forms were submitted to state historic preservation offices and to the National Park Service to apply for National Register status. State Site Inventory form: Forms that the State agency uses to assess the importance of individual historic buildings.

State Site Inventory form

Forms that the State agency uses to assess the importance of individual historic buildings.