The Baederwood Movie Theater operated from 1965 to 2006 at 1619 The Fairway in Jenkintown.

According to local historian Chuck Langerman, the theater opened on November 17, 1965, originally as a single-screen venue operated by General Cinema Theatres. The theater was twinned in June 1972 and was later taken over by Sameric Theatres. It operated as the Eric Twin Baederwood before being acquired by United Artists on April 22, 1988.

According to CinemaTreasures.org, “A large two story lobby with soaring glass walls greeted patrons. After the entrance, but before the main lobby space, was a vestibule with an enclosed ticket sales counter on the left. All seating in the auditorium was on one floor. Reportedly, a curtain was never used before the movie screen.”

Following renovations in the early 2000s, it reopened in December 2003 as the Baederwood Stadium 4. From CinemaTreasures.org:

The Baederwood was the focus of controversy covered by the evening television news and other news media during the 2004 presidential campaign. On October 19, 2004, “Stolen Honor” filmmaker Carlton Sherwood appeared along with many people to attend a special screening of the documentary. Due to telephoned threats of boycotts, lawsuits and violence, the screening was canceled at last minute.

According to Langerman, many patrons would head over to Murray’s Deli and Restaurant after a showing to get a bite to eat.

The space formerly occupied by the theater is now a Planet Fitness. If you have fond memories of the theater, please feel free to leave then in the comments.

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Photos: CinemaTreasures.org, Planet Fitness