A "Temple of Pleasure:" Missoula's Wilma Theatre

Abstract

The Wilma Theatre in downtown Missoula, Montana, has provided the city and surrounding area with entertainment since 1921. W. A. "Billy" Simons, president of the Northwest Theatre Company, commissioned the building's construction in 1920, during the heyday of the movie palace. In addition to the well-appointed theatre, the building housed a café , an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, offices, and apartments.