The Timmins Porcupine Gold Rush, otherwise known as the 100-year goldrush, brought workers from around the world in 1911 to dig, drill and excavate for the precious golden metal, but it also brought with it the golden era of movies and movie theatres to a then remote part of Canada.
Jessica Whitehead a PHD candidate from York University-Ryerson University Communications and Culture program, will tonight tell the amazing story of the Leo Mascioli Empire Theatre chain that had its origins right here in Timmins, Ontario in 1912. Whitehead will be delivering a talk on Timmins pioneer road builder, hotel owner and movie chain impresario, Leo Mascioli.
The talk is set for 6 p.m. at the Timmins Museum 325 2nd Avenue. Tickets are $5 plus tax.
Despite the importance of movie theatres in helping gold workers unwind and socialize there was no mention of this feat during the 100th anniversary celebrations. Whitehead's research will enshrine the significant contribution of Leo Mascioli to the building of Timmins.
For more information call the museum at 705-360-2617
