Own a Piece of Colfax History – The Iconic Colfax Theatre Is for Sale

When the golden age of cinema swept across America, towns like Colfax, California, found themselves hosting architectural jewels that would shape their identity for generations. Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Colfax, the Colfax Theatre isn’t just a building—it’s a memory machine. Since opening its doors in 1939, the Colfax Theatre has been the heartbeat of a small-town storybook narrative. Today, it’s not just a venue—it’s a living artifact, and now, the Colfax Theatre is for sale, looking for a new chapter.

A Glimpse Into Colfax CA’s Past

Located along the famed First Transcontinental Railroad and named after Schuyler Colfax, the 17th Vice President of the United States, Colfax CA has long been a crossroads of culture, commerce, and community. Its historic downtown, dotted with buildings that whisper stories of the Gold Rush and early 20th-century Americana, has evolved into a charming destination for visitors and locals alike.

Right at the gateway of this revitalized district stands the Colfax Theatre—bold, iconic, and enduring.

The Birth of a Community Icon

The year was 1939. While the world held its breath at the premiere of “Gone with the Wind” and “The Wizard of Oz,” Colfax proudly unveiled its own cinematic marvel: the Colfax Theatre. Built in the streamlined Art Deco style, the theatre mirrored the sophistication and hope of an era emerging from the shadows of the Great Depression.

With around 125 seats and glowing marquee, the theatre became more than a place to watch films—it was where stories came to life, romances bloomed, and generations connected.

Restoration and Renaissance: The 1980s Revival

Like many historic theatres across America, the Colfax Theatre faced decline in the latter half of the 20th century. But where some saw decay, the community saw potential. In the late 1980s, a group of passionate locals led a restoration initiative to bring back the building’s former glory. The project aimed to preserve its architectural charm while equipping it with modern amenities, effectively bridging the past and future.

This was not just a facelift. It was a full-hearted revival—turning the theatre into a space where live music, local theatre, and cinematic experiences could once again thrive.

Why the Colfax Theatre Matters Now More Than Ever

Downtown Colfax is on the brink of an exciting rebirth. Fueled by grant funding, heritage tourism, and small business investments, the town is crafting a new identity grounded in community, history, and culture.

As the southern anchor of Main Street, the theatre isn’t just centrally located—it’s symbolically vital. Its grand marquee serves as a lighthouse for opportunity. Any investor, preservationist, or dreamer looking to make an impact can find in this building a blank stage upon which to script the next act of Colfax’s story.

Potential Uses for the Colfax Theatre

Owning a historic theatre doesn’t mean just playing reruns of old films (though that would be charming). The Colfax Theatre offers incredible versatility:

Event Venue – Perfect for fundraisers and community gatherings.

Community Arts Center – Host performances, art exhibits, lectures, and workshops.

Live Music Venue – Think acoustic nights, jazz sessions, or indie band showcases.

Independent Cinema – Showcase local filmmakers or hold film festivals.

A Business Opportunity with Heart

Purchasing the Colfax Theatre isn’t just an investment in real estate—it’s a commitment to community. With Colfax’s population growing and its tourism on the rise, this space could become a cornerstone of local economic development.

And the timing couldn’t be better. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is actively partnering with stakeholders, applying for grants, and driving initiatives to support projects just like this.

The Theatre’s Specs

📍 Address: 49 S. Main Street, Colfax CA
🗝️ Built: 1939
🎭 Seating: 125
🏛️ Style: Art Deco
📸 Status: Restored and structurally sound
See the pictures and get the details and request a tour >>

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re a preservationist with a passion for history, a business owner with an eye for opportunity, or a community organizer wanting to ignite creativity in your town—this theatre is your blank canvas. Read more about the sale details >>

Email the association directly at [email protected] to learn more, schedule a tour, or pitch your vision. We are here to support you turning our beloved theatre around and bringing music back to Colfax, CA.

Colfax Theatre: More Than a Building

The Colfax Theatre isn’t just for sale—it’s calling. It invites you to become part of something timeless. Whether you see it as an entrepreneurial venture, a preservation project, or a gift to a community that values its history, this opportunity is rare and meaningful.

Take the leap. Be the one who helps bring the curtain up on Colfax’s next golden era.