07/13/2025
The Cactus Theatre
📍 Hawthorne, NV
The Cactus Theatre is a storied World War II-era theater constructed in 1946 within a Quonset hut, a distinctive architectural design that is rare for theaters. This allowed the structure to endure nearly 80 years with much of it's original features intact. The location of the theater & it's patriotic paint job speaks directly to the history of Hawthorne!
During World War II, the Hawthorne Naval Ammunition Depot right up the road employed thousands of people and remained a busy base for decades. The theater provided entertainment for base employees in this remote part of Nevada from the time of its construction throughout much of the 20th century. Many servicemembers and their dependants hold fond memories of not only attending movies here, but also community events.
The current owner is focused on rehabilitating the building and reopening it as the "Old Glory Theatre". Once open, they hope to play 35mm films and will also feature a collection of artwork and movie memorabilia honoring veterans in Nevada and veterans in film.
Currently, the Old Glory Theatre has a new marquee out front which features re-used letters from the original "Cactus Theatre" sign.
Next time you're passing through Hawthorne, stop by and check out this historic Hawthorne block!
