Orpheum (Empress, Pantages) Theatre - 3/10 Robert Morton
Portland, Oregon
Broadway at Yamhill St.
Organ installation timeframe: 1925-1954
 
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Robert Morton console (after removal from the theatre)
 
There were two locations for the Orpheum Theatre. The original Orpheum Theatre was located in a relatively small, two-story building. The theatre later moved to a much larger house previously occupied by the Empress Theatre.
 

Broadway, looking South, 1946
 

Records show that a Robert Morton organ was installed in 1925 or 1926. As was typical for Pantages theatres, the organ was installed under the stage.   According to a 1927 Jacob's Magazine, Henri Le Bel is credited with being one of the big draws at the Pantages Theatre. "He is a master showman as well as a thorough artist. He is one of the few organists to create a real following in the Northwest, and is considered the ace of the Pantages string."   Looking South on Broadway, c.1930's --->   In 1954, Balcom & Vaughan moved the organ to the Adams Skate Rink in Tacoma, Washington.

 

Looking across the intersection of Broadway & Yamhill, 1963
 

Looking North on Broadway, c.1936
 

Looking South on Broadway, c.1950's.
 

Looking South on Broadway, c.1957. Fox and Paramount signage also visible.
 

An early view looking North on Broadway. Heilig and Hippodrome Theatre signage also visible