What's Happening in San Francisco, CA…

Movie buffs in San Jose are cheering a decision by the city council to grant historical status to the Century 21 cinema, which is a domed structure.

According to a June 11th news item, developers have been trying to obtain the property for years, since the land on which it sits could be used for either residential or business projects, both of which could be very lucrative.

However, supporters of preservation argued that the theater, which is now 50, is one of the oldest dome-style cinemas in the nation, as well as being a fairly rare type of construction for a movie house. They cited the fact that the theater is now a part of the culture of San Jose, and should remain intact as a valuable asset to the city. The council agreed and voted 7-4 in favor of officially giving the building historical status.

The State Historic Resources Commission also sided with those who want to preserve the building, recommending the theater be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Such a designation should ensure that it remains a proud part of San Jose's history for many years to come.

Theater owners and preservationists could work with brochure printers to create a mailer for San Jose residents explaining why the theater is valuable to the community, and asking for continued support.