The enduring romance with the Franklin Theatre began in the summer of 1937. The marquee spilled brilliantly onto Main Street inviting citizens countywide to see "Night Must Fall," starring Robert Montgomery and Rosalind Russell.

And they came -- young and old, black and white, rich and poor. They laughed, they cried, they dreamed. And, together, within the illuminated walls of the Franklin Theatre, unforgettable moments occurred and memories were made.

In the 72 years that followed, life changed dramatically. But for the most part, the Franklin Theatre stood timeless, becoming one of the most beloved small-town movie houses in the South. Fresh-popped corn, first kisses and saving pennies for the Saturday matinee became pastimes shared from one generation to the next.

Many individuals in this community have stepped forward to support the Save the Franklin Theatre project, and more financial aid is needed.  Gifts of all sizes will make a big difference.  Theatre seat sales are $2,500 per seat; businesses may jump on board with the purchase of a medallion star giving perpetual advertising for years to come at $25,000; and for those who want to show up at the movies when it first opens, you may buy 4 tickets for $30 good until 2011 or purchase a theatre curtain remnant shadow box for $40.

For more information on theatre gifts, please call Damon Rogers at 615.591.8500 Ext 18 or email or visit the Heritage Foundation office located inside the historic Five Points Post Office at 510 Columbia Avenue.

ADS Security is donating the security system to the Franklin Theatre and will also donate $100 for each new security system installed or $100 for each new monitoring agreement on an existing security system. For more information, call 615-695-6544 or email or visit www.adsalarms.com

Info. provided by the Hermitage Foundation.