By 1808Delaware
In an initial step in a hoped-for project at Delaware’s historic Strand Theater, owner Strand Theatre and Cultural Arts Association appeared before the City’s Historic Preservation Commission last week for an informal application review.
An informal review allows applicants to engage in dialogue with Commission members to answer questions, discuss concerns, and hear ideas about possible project revisions.
The Strand Theatre has stood at 28 East Winter Street since April, 1916, and is one of the oldest theatres in Ohio in continuous operation. The proposal would impact the Strand’s current marquee, which dates from the 1930s, as well as to its front doors.
The last time the building was before the HPC was in 2011 and 2012 for renovations to the facade, including refurbishment of the marquee. The marquee has been inspected and is non-repairable, a staff report shared, and the letters used are not only a safety issue but also are no longer made.
The safety issue stems from the need for volunteers to climb on ladders to reach the marquee for letter changing. The new marquee would feature electronic lettering, changeable from inside the facility, but with a historic “look.”
The new marquee has been designed by Warner Signs, a three-generation company with ample experience in this field. It would also feature vintage-looking bulbs as well as neon and chaser lights, similar to the current unit.
Also included will be a four foot by fifteen fee “blade” sign which would reach up to the building cornice. This is larger than allowed by current standards for auto-oriented projecting signs, staff noted, but owners believe the size is needed because of the proportions of the building. The nearest comparable is the former Clancy’s sign on South Sandusky.
The front doors would be completely replaced with wood doors of a similar appearance. The six, 32” wide doors would be removed and 4, 36” doors would take their place.
Staff told the HPC that the proposed changes would not detract from the appearance of the historic district.
The matter will now be continued to a future meeting of the Commission.
