The Lower Columbia Preservation Society Presents: A Free Monthly Lecture About Local History & Historic Preservation
February’s Lecture:
Queen of the Coast: 100 Years of Astoria and the Liberty Theatre
Presented by E. Michael Friend.
2025 marks the official centennial of Astoria’s beloved Liberty Theatre and what better way to celebrate than a new book and lecture about the grand lady. This month’s guest lecturer, E. Michael Friend, is author of the recently penned “Queen of the Coast,” a short published work exploring 100 years of the Liberty Theatre and its home, Astoria, Oregon.
E. Michael Friend’s book focuses primarily on the linked history between the city and the historic theater, which was built as a grand gesture to make opulence available to every man as part of Astoria’s rebirth following the disastrous fire of 1922.
Opening in 1925 to great acclaim then eventually falling into neglect, the Liberty was one of the last vaudeville/movie palaces constructed in Oregon at a time when Astoria was seen by developers as a major West Coast port city that could rival New York City. What follows is a story of boom and bust.
Join us for this interesting story! Tuesday, February 11th at 7:00pm at Pacifick Distillery housed in the historic Astoria Wharf and Warehouse. Come early to secure a seat and enjoy a refreshment. Dining and beverage menus are available.
Tuesday, February 11th at 7:00pm
Pacifick Distillery, 55 4th St. Astoria, OR
Free and open to the public.
