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Gothenburg, Nebraska

The Sun Theatre was built and used as an opera house from 1909-1926. In 1927, the theatre was opened by Glen VanWey. Children were charged 10 cents and adults 20 cents for silent movies accompanied by an orchestra. The 1930s brought sound, Technicolor and controversy over allowing movies to be shown on Sundays. The public vote narrowly approved Sunday movies. When money was scarce during the depression, the theatre advertised "egg nights" - a dozen eggs valued at 6 cents was the price of admission. Glen VanWey's son, Ernie, operated the theatre from 1956-1981. A fund drive by the Gothenburg Community Playhouse to "Save the Sun" has kept the theatre open under volunteer management and public contributions. Currently, the theatre runs weekly movies Friday through Sunday and sponsors Community Playhouse productions several times a year.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Lake Helen

Foresighted citizens approved a bond issue in 1889 for construction of a 12

Gothenburg, NE Recreation

Sod House Museum

The award-winning Sod House Museum was established in Gothenburg in 1988

Gothenburg, NE Museums

1320 Lake Avenue

James E. Norsworthy came to Gothenburg with his wife Sarah in 1889. In 1905 he built this lovely 2-1/2

Gothenburg, NE Historic Homes

Veterans' War Memorial

Located on the west shore of Lake Helen, this memorial is a reminder of sacrifices made by veterans and their families of all wars. The names listed commemorate local residents who gave their lives. World War I:

Gothenburg, NE Memorials


Things to do near Gothenburg, NE

Lake McConaughy Hunting

Come fall, when campers, water skiers, swimmers, sailboaters and most fishermen have abandoned the lake, Big Mac becomes wate...

Audubon Crane Sanctuary

Every spring they come...A half million of them. Most of the sandhill cranes on this earth. And for a long, splendid month in...