Masonic Opera House – What Cheer, IA - U.S. National Register of Historic Places on Waymarking.com

Built in 1893, the What Cheer Mason Lodge was the center of entertainment when the town was a thriving coal mining community. After a period of being vacant in the 1960’s, the building was threatened with demolition and the town had to choose between tearing it down or restoring it. The small community of just over 850 residents contributed countless hours of volunteer labor to save the historical building, and in the mid-70’s the brick landmark was once again entertaining top named bands and local talent shows. It continues to provide entertainment with many musical venues: country, rock, blues, and gospel to name a few.

(A personal note: My husband was pastor at the United Methodist church in What Cheer in the ‘70’s and I recall having a reception for Frank Sinatra Jr. in our church basement after his concert at the Opera House.)

Street address: 201 Barnes Street What Cheer, IA USA County / Borough / Parish: Keokuk Year listed: 1973 Historic (Areas of) Significance: Entertainment/Recreation Periods of significance: 1875-1899 Historic function: Recreation And Culture, Social Current function: Recreation And Culture, Social Privately owned?: yes Primary Web Site: [Web Link] Season start / Season finish: Not listed Hours of operation: Not listed Secondary Website 1: Not listed Secondary Website 2: Not listed National Historic Landmark Link: Not listed

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