Springfield’s Historic Capitol Theater Heading to Auction Block
SPRINGFIELD, TENNESSEE (Smokey Barn News): A fixture of downtown for nearly a century, Springfield’s Capitol Theater, once the city’s movie house, is being offered at auction. Built in 1934, the Art Deco structure served the community as a cinema for nearly 80 years before closing its doors in 2018. The theater has long been considered part of downtown Springfield’s identity, marking decades of operation on South Main Street.
Following its closure, the property was purchased by local preservationist Gary Bowie, who invested in structural and mechanical updates, including roof, HVAC, and electrical improvements. Renovation efforts also revealed original wall art that had been hidden for decades behind drapery. Despite these investments, the project stalled, and the Capitol Theater is now scheduled to return to the auction block later this month.
A Glimpse into History
Nearly a Century of Movies
The Springfield Cinema (later AMC-owned) closed its doors on March 15, 2018, after nearly 80 years of screening films. The final showing—a packed audience of 105—watched Black Panther as the credits rolled on the community’s last remaining movie theater Smokey Barn News. Robertson County Mayor Howard Bradley lamented: “For 80 years the movie house has been the anchor of downtown…” Smokey Barn News.
A Preservationist Takes the Helm
In May 2019, Gary Bowie (no relation to the singer) acquired the theater with a vision to revive it—not just as a cinema, but as a mixed-use entertainment venue. He teamed up with music and sound professionals, including Marti Frederiksen, to bring the space back to life with live music and community events Smokey Barn News.
The Charm of the Original Art
Bowie didn’t just renovate—he restored. After removing wall drapes, he uncovered original artwork preserved behind them, evoking a vivid sense of the theater’s classic past Smokey Barn News
Renovations and Obstacles
Despite thousands invested—updating the roof, HVAC, electrical, and structure—the project stalled due to personal and pandemic-related constraints. Bowie described himself as “a preservationist” more than a developer, lamenting his lack of time to finish what he started Smokey Barn News.
Earlier Revival Attempts
Prior to all this, the theater saw cosmetic and amenity upgrades. Around 2017, it received new carpeting, an updated lobby, a Freestyle drink station, self-serve ICEE, and a relocated popcorn machine to enhance the movie-going experience Smokey Barn News.
Now: Off to Auction
The historic Capitol Theater at 718 South Main Street goes to auction—live and online—on Saturday, September 27, at 10 a.m.
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Auction House: Bluegrass Auction Associates MORE ONLINE PHOTOS AND INFO
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Bluegrass Auction can be reached at 615-537-1180
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Venue Details: Built in 1934 in Art Deco style; partially renovated; seats 248 on the main floor and 198 in the balcony; sits on 0.34 acres.
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Use Potential: Slate for movies, music, theater, or public/private events.
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Bidding Info: Available in person and online via Hibid starting September 13.
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Terms: 10% down at auction, balance due in 30 days; buyer’s premium is 10% in person, 15% online; selling “as is” with no warranties.
