I love this wonderfully atmospheric nighttime shot from 1912 of the entrance to a place called Wonderland, at 315 S. Main in downtown Los Angeles. Opening on February 4, 1908, it was a combination moving picture theater, music hall, waxworks, and exhibit venue—something for everyone! That streak of light running through the middle of the photo was caused by a passing streetcar, and I assume that the “5” in front of the box office meant admission was five cents.
There’s no evidence of Wonderland left now. This is that same address in May 2022.
Old picture is better.
Yes, and it usually is!
I agree — this is a “wonder”fully atmospheric shot. Very noirish. Store fronts just had more flair back in the day.
I believe the picture from 2022 is actually 430 S. Broadway. There was another, unrelated, short-lived ‘Wonderland’ in that location.