Constructed in 1901, Turner Hall (Wilson Opera House) was completed by Frank Kvasnicka, Sr and a few other motived local men. Post rock was quarried in from 5 miles outside of Wilson to construct a building complete with dining hall, kitchen, gymnasium, stage floor, and balcony. In early 1900’s the Sokal team practiced and entertained in a gym that occupied the basement of the Opera House. The team earned trophies and high honors. Traveling shows came to Wilson on the train and entertained to a full house from the stage.
Installed in 1912, the first “movie machine” showed movies several nights a week. Cesky Den "Czech Day," a Thanksgiving celebration for the Wilson Czech Lodges, filled the hall each autumn. Due to the decline of Sokal memberships, the gymnastic team discontinued. The unoccupied gym was filled, and a concrete floor was poured. This made room for a museum. Donations of memorabilia from families in Wilson and surrounding communities allowed the museum to become a point of interest for Wilson. Entertainment continued to be enjoyed with dances, banquets, weddings, school programs, dinner theatre, Czech Queen Pageants, and traveling shows for many years.
In June of 1986, the
Wilson Czech Opera House Corporation formed.
In the early hours of November 6, 2009, a devastating fire started in a nearby building and spread to the Opera House. By the time the fire was extinguished, the historic entertainment venue was in ruins.
The Goal: To restore the historic
Wilson Czech Opera House. Restoration will convert the space into an Open
Air Theatre, supporting community events, arts, music, heritage, tourism, and
improve the historic district aesthetics.
If
you have any questions or concerns about your order, please contact:
Kari
Maul – [email protected]