Farewell Dear Friend

Sunday, Birmingham and the state of Alabama lost a dear friend. Cecil Whitmire who was responsible for the renovation and preservation of our beautiful Alabama Theatre passed away. Cecil began playing, what we all call "The Mighty Wurlitzer" in the late 1970's . In 1987 he became the president of Alabama Landmarks and is credited with giving our fabulous 83 year old Alabama Theatre a new life. I was privileged to have met him in recent years when I photographed the Alabama and another of his loves.....the Lyric. We mourn the loss of a wonderful friend and hope that others will step up to continue the renovation and preservation of the theatres that he so loved.

I have many posts of the Alabama and the Lyric here, here, and here, and here,

Birmingham Rouge VI - The Mighty Wurlitzer

Quick, what's BIG, red and at 82 years of age can still belt out a tune? The Historic Alabama Theatre's "Mighty Wurlitzer" of course! Big Bertha, as she is affectionately known, has to be the most over the top organ anywhere! At the time the theatre was built in 1927, silent movies accompanied by an orchestra were the norm. Using an organ for smaller shows and matinees was a way to save money. I have many fond memories of afternoons spent here as a girl. Before and after the movie, the spotlight would dramatically shine on the stage and the floor would open and the organ and organist would magically rise up! From 1937 -1956 audiences were entertained by Stanleigh Malotte, who not only played but added some interesting commentary on Birmingham politics etc. The Alabama's faithful steward, Cecil Whitmire, not only oversees the preservation of the wonderful old theatre, but still plays from time to time. On my tour with volunteer and friend Tom Cronier, we were treated to a concert via the computerized system that has been installed. The Alabama Theatre is a Birmingham treasure that thankfully has been lovingly preserved.

For previous posts on the Alabama click here , here. and here

A HUGE congrats to our dear friend Bob Crowe who is celebrating his Saint Louis MO Daily Photo's 1,000th post today. Can you believe that??? Bob has to be the hardest working blogger on City Daily Photo, and might I add a terrific friend and mentor. Take a big bow B!!!