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In 1919, the Blackstone Theatre Corporation probed South Bend's community for added contributions and investors for the construction of "a showhouse that will be one of the finest in the country." The Corporation planned to include "the very latest ideas ... in the construction of the theatre so as to make it the distinguished pride of South Bend."4 Some of these planned improvement included a large seating area for 2,500 people, a fully equipped ladies restroom, a nursery with toys and a nurse, and storefronts along the street. Billed as a movie house, the Blackstone would provide the best entertainment and experience possible for community members. The Corporation chose Henry Newhouse of Chicago to design the new theater. The construction firm Sollitt Construction Co. Mc erected Newhouse's Neo-classical and Beaux Arts design. Much terra cotta covers the fagade's parapet and window surrounds that are elaborated by terra cotta jesters. The recessed portico on the third story has four pairs of fluted columns. The wall behind has diagonal patterns in brick and terra cotta, a cornice line, and terra cotta panels honoring the performing arts. The 1978 survey notes that the theater was in good condition at that time, but seems in danger of removal. The surveyor noted that it "should be saved." The 1989 feasibility study proposed that the State/Blackstone Theatre be renovated to include a 750 -seat Concert Hall and a 300-350 seats performance theatre for children's performances or smaller live productions. The plan called for an umbrella organization for the Entertainment District would coordinate funding, an endowment, volunteer staff, and performances. The full extent of this plan has not been carried out for the State , but in 1997, James E. Childs & Associates, Inc. brought forth designs and agreements for the rehabilitation to the fagade of the theatre as it appears today. Currently, the theatre seems to operate as a nightclub. The addition of ongoing acts and performances would also economically benefit the restaurants and coffee shops in the downtown area. Nearby parking may be an issue for performances, but there are several nearby lots and parking garages within walking distance of the theater. Because of the recent money spent to renovate this city gem, a return to the previous usage of the building as a place for public entertainment and gatherings to view live concerts and performances or children's theater would add much to South Bend's lack of varied and enriching nightlife. Built as an arena for the public, perhaps it could return to such a happy status in the future. South Gatewav Farther a Field Pulling away from downtown South Bend and returning the area south of the Penn Central/Conrail Railroad bridge, which was built in the 1930s, one can drive north (only) and see many other lovely historic buildings. Around these structures, much of the urban and residential fabric has been demolished and replaced with open lots for cracking and declining parking lots. Several of the buildings are highly rated structures from the Indiana Historic Structures Survey and a few are local landmarks. With time and optimism, this area could improve and regain some of its commercial viability. Starting at the 1600s block, the owners of the large stucco Queen Anne at 1602 S. Michigan have put the century home up for sale. This once -residence now houses the House of Something Better, Health Food Store. The residence next door, owned by the same person, is also for sale. The two-story building stands on a corner lot across from a Mexican food store, La Tacqueria, and two auto related shops. One of these is currently closed. A small, unpaved area covered in gravel is located in the rear and serves as a parking lot. 4 "The Blackstone Theatre Corporation, an open letter to the public," South Bend Tribune. 4 September 1919.