The Art-Deco designs that graced every element of the theatre’s interior let movie-goers know that this was a modern 20th century movie palace. While the Loew’s Grand Theatre was immediately recognized by locals as a notable institution, the hosting of “Gone With the Wind’s” opening night is what immortalized the theatre.
After the eventual demolition of the Loew’s Grand, fans of “Gone With the Wind” felt a great attachment to mementos related to the storied theatre. This devotion can be seen here in the results of a Christie’s auction of an oddly shaped and “somewhat stained” piece of this very carpet that sold for $1,159!
(credit: American Theatre Architecture Archive, Theatre Historical Society of America)