Before this theatre was built in 1849, the only entertainment available in Sacramento was found in gambling houses and saloons. Then, when the theatre was built 49ers, starved for culture, paid $5 in gold dust to enjoy dramatic and musical entertainment. In 1850, the Sacramento River flooded the theatre.

This reconstructed 80-seat theatre is designated as an historic landmark. Docent-led tours are free and feature computerized slide shows covering Sacramento’s early rough-and-tumble history. During summer weekends, the theatre produces period melodramas as well as featuring musical entertainment.