Bennington Opera House

The Bennington Opera House was built in 1892 by Henry W. Putnam, who wanted to bring quality entertainment to the town of Bennington. The building was luxurious, with a domed ceiling, electric chandelier, and seating for 1,000 people in the theater. Opening night featured a production of MacBeth, followed by regular traveling groups performing plays, variety shows, concerts, and an occasional opera. In May of 1915, the opera house was equipped with a projector booth and screen in the upper gallery. In 1928 extensive renovations converted the main theater for movies and the name was changed to the General Stark Theater.

The Bennington Club, an exclusive men’s club, operated out of an elegant space on the second floor and shops were located on the street level. The building met its demise in the early hours of February 10, 1959, destroyed by a massive fire.