By Muriel Bristol | February 24, 2024
Continued from Milton’s A.O.U.W. Hall – 1890-1925
Walter Eugene Young was born in Rochester, NH, April 6, 1888, son of Walter and Alice (Tufts) Young.
Walter E. Young married in Dover, NH, December 18, 1907, Edna M. Olsen, both of Rochester, NH. He was a box maker, aged nineteen years, and she was a shoe operative, aged twenty years. Rev. Albert J. Northrup performed the ceremony. She was born in Rochester, NH, circa 1887, daughter of Claus and Christina (Hansen) Olsen. (Her parents were natives of Norway).
(The known children of Walter E. and Edna M. (Olsen) Young were: Norma A. Young (1918-2011), and Walter H. Young (1920-)).
Claus Olson, a carpenter (odd jobs), aged sixty-eight years (b. Norway), headed a Rochester, NH, household at the time of the Thirteenth (1910) Federal Census. His household included his wife (of forty-two years), Christina [(Hansen)] Olson, aged sixty-six years (b. Norway), his son-in-law (of two years), Walter E. Young, a shoe worker (shoe factory), aged twenty-two years (b. NH), his daughter, Edna M. [(Olson)] Young, a top stitcher (shoe factory), aged twenty-two years (b. NH), and his granddaughter, C. Christina Day, aged twenty years (b. NH). Class Olson rented their house at 26 Jackson Street. Christina Olson was the mother of ten children, of whom seven were still living. They had immigrated from Norway in 1883 and 1884, respectively.
Walter E. Young opened his Olympia Theatre in the former Knights of Pythias Block on Central Street in Farmington, NH, May 11, 1914. This would be the first of his several theatre venues in the region.
Local. W.E. Young will open his new Olympia Theatre in the K. of P. block on Central street next Monday evening, May 11. The initial bill will be one of the very best and presented under the advantage of the most modern and up-to-date equipments, with which the new theatre will be provided. Mr. Young plans to make the event most auspicious in dedicating the new play house. The individual opera chairs now being put in will be a special feature of comfort to the patrons. Full particulars of opening will be published next week. Patrons will note the change in name, for the new theater is to be christened “The Olympia.” Proprietor Young will also present, as an opening attraction, “Madam Flower” of Boston, known as the “Bronze Melba,” who will be heard here for the first time in her characteristic song roles (Farmington News, May 8, 1914).
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directory of 1917, as working with moving pictures at 14 Central street, and rooming at 48 Central street. The Olympia Theatre appeared under Moving Picture Shows, at 14 Central street.
Walter E. Young of Farmington, NH, registered for the WW I military draft in Farmington, NH, June 5, 1917. He was twenty-eight years old (b. Rochester, NH, April 6, 1888), married, and was self-employed in Farmington, NH, in the moving picture business. He was of a short height, medium build, with brown eyes and black hair. (His gravestone bears the inscription “PVT 20 CO 151 DEPOT BRIGADE, WORLD WAR I”).
Daughter Norma Agnes Young was born in Rochester, NH, August 20, 1918. She was the first child. Her father was employed in the motion picture business.
Walter E. Young, a proprietor (picture theatre), aged thirty-one years, headed a Farmington, NH, household at the time of the Fourteenth (1920) Federal Census. his household included his wife, Edna M. [(Olsen)] Young, aged thirty-two years (b. NH), and his daughter, Norma A. Young, aged one year. Walter E. Young rented their apartment on East Grove Street. The other apartment was occupied by the household of John V. Kimball, a superintendent (box mill), aged thirty-two years (b. NH).
Son Walter Harris Young was born in Farmington, NH, October 4, 1920. He was the second child. His father was employed with motion pictures.
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directory of 1921, as proprietor of the Strand Theatre, at 14 Central street, with his house at 21 E. Grove street.
The following three silent films were shown at Young’s Strand Theatre in Farmington, NH, in September 1922. The same films were probably shown also at Young’s Strand Theatre in Milton. Silent film showings usually featured live piano accompaniment by some local pianist.
At all these theatres, all this week – Paramount Pictures will be shown. … STRAND THEATRE, Farmington, N.H. Sept. 4 – Heliotrope; Sept. 7 – Right to Love; Sept. 9 – Frontier of the Stars (Portsmouth Herald, September 2, 1922).
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directory of 1924, as proprietor of the Strand Theatre, at 14 Central street, with his house at N. Main street.
The A.O.U.W. sold their A.O.U.W. Hall to impresario Walter E. Young (1888-1956) of Farmington, NH, in December 1925. It had then a second life as both the Silver Slipper dance hall and as one of his chain of Strand Theatres. (He had at various times other theaters in Somersworth, Pittsfield, Gilmanton, New Durham and Milton). The Milton A.O.U.W. building’s original two-story construction had included
… three stores and a grand entrance on the ground floor, a large hall for dramatics and other entertainments on the second floor, with Lodge room and necessary ante room on the upper floor (Farmington News, October 10, 1890).
Walter E. Young appeared in the Rochester, NH, directory of 1926, as proprietor of the Opera House Theatre, in East Rochester, with his house at Farmington, NH. The Opera House Theatre appeared at 19 Main street, in East Rochester.
SILVER SLIPPER PAVILION. Walter E. Young is giving the patrons of his popular dance pavilion, the Silver Slipper at Milton, a real old-fashioned barn with all the fixin’s this Friday evening. Farm fed livestock, hay, fodder and vegetables will be among the decorations and there will be swings and all the regular old-time farm appointments. Milk drinking and egg laying contests will be among the features. This event should prove a big hit for the Silver Slipper and furnish a whale of a good time for all Mr. Young is the originator of the barn dance idea on a big scale and whenever he advertises such an affair the public may be assured that no details will be left out (Farmington News, August 6, 1926).
W.E. YOUNG PRESENTS COLORED ENTERTAINERS AT THE OPERA HOUSE. I am glad to announce that I have been able to get the combined shows, “Bamvelle Revue” and ‘Tennessee Blossoms,” to come to Farmington next Monday night, August 16. There are 20 people in all. This is a high-class colored show, with a colored orchestra. They have a snappy Creole chorus, funny comedians and some of the finest singing you ever heard. It is the only show that we have ever played and turned people away from the box office. It is the first show we ever played to more people on the second night than on the first. I knew that I have some Blossoms, to come to Farmington will like or I never would attempt to take them to the opera house. They are at Central Park this week. On next Tuesday evening they will appear at Alton. Signed, Walter E. Young.
This played to 1800 people in one day at Wolfeboro. – Ansel Sanborn. Turned people away at Pittsfield two days. – W.E. Young. Turned people away at the Silver Slipper in Milton. – W.E. Young. Played to 800 people Monday, 1200 Tuesday, 2200 Wednesday. – Mr. Lyons, Manager, Central Park, Somersworth (Farmington News, August 13, 1926).
LOCAL. Friendship Council, Junior Order, United American Mechanics will present a moving picture show at the Strand theatre on Monday, December 13, and has selected for the feature picture The White Desert, from Courtney Ryley Cooper’s great book. There will be two shows on the evening of that date, the first at 6.30 and the second at 8 o’clock (Farmington News, December 3, 1926).
Walter E. Young paid $91.35 in total taxes on the former A.O.U.W. Hall building, which was valued at $3,500, in the year ending January 31, 1927.
LOCAL. The Farmington Woman’s club, through the courtesy of W.E. Young, will present a moving picture entertainment at the Strand theatre on the afternoon and evening of April 11. The proceeds that the club receives from the patronage of this picture will be applied to a scholarship fund. The feature picture of this date will be “Classified,” with Corinne Griffth in the star role. This young actress is a favorite with moving picture patrons and any picture she figures in is sure to be a headliner. There will be a matinee at 3.30 and two evening shows. It is assured that there will a heavy advance sale of tickets, not only by reason of the merits of the entertainment, but for the worthy cause it benefits (Farmington News, April 1, 1927).
COUNTRY CARNIVAL, SILVER SLIPPER PAVILION. Walter E. Young announces a grand country carnival to be held at the Silver Slipper Pavilion in Milton this Friday evening, October 14. The hall will be specially decorated for the occasion and handsome prizes will be awarded in a wood-sawing contest for ladies, waltz and fox trot contests. Prizes also will be given to holders of the lucky tickets. Among other attractions will be a special bill of movies and social dancing, with music by “Ross and His Gang.” No one who is looking for a good time will miss this event. Free parking space will be provided for autos (Farmington News, October 14, 1927).
MOVING PICTURES AND HALLOWEEN PICTURES. Walter E. Young, well known moving picture man of the locality, and entertainment promoter, promises the public of this vicinity two special entertainment dates, October 27 and 28. The former, this Thursday evening, will be held at Pittsfield and will feature a Hallowe’en dance and feature picture, entitled, “McFadden’s Flats.” Music will be furnished by Ross and His Gang. Hallowe’en hats and novelties will be given away. Attend in Hallowe’en costume if you like. On Friday evening, Mr. Young will feature the same celebration at his famous Silver Slipper pavilion at Milton. There will be movies and lavish decorations, together with free Hallowe’en favors. Plan to attend one or both of these big Hallowe’en dances (Farmington News, October 28, 1927).
SANBORNVILLE. Esther McCrillis of the village will take part in the play, Miss Busley’s Boarders, which will be given by Nute high school students at the Strand theatre, Milton, December 12 (Farmington News, December 9, 1927).
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directories of 1928, and 1929, as proprietor of the Strand Theatre, at 14 Central street, with his house at 62 N. Main street.
LOCAL. A rally will be held next Wednesday evening, October 17, at the Milton Strand theatre, under the auspices of the Milton democratic committee. Good speakers and good music will be in attendance and the public is cordially invited (Farmington News, October 19, 1928).
LOCAL. Next Monday evening, November 12, Oscar G. Morehouse Post, American Legion, of Milton will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the World war armistice with a grand concert and ball at the Silver Slipper, Milton’s popular dance hall and moving picture theatre. The feature has been planned with many carnival aspects and patriotic features and dance fans from this locality should plan to attend. Music will be furnished by Edney’s Blue Ribbon orchestra (Farmington News, November 9, 1928).
In 1929, Walter E. Young owned Milton real estate valued at $3,500, on which he paid $95.55 in town property taxes. As he lived in Farmington, NH, this real estate would have been the former A.O.U.W. Hall, which he had repurposed as the Strand Theatre and Silver Slipper Pavilion.
Walter E. Young acquired the latest technology to introduce “talking” movies, or “talkies,” in his Strand Theatre in Farmington, NH, in April 1929. This technology would have appeared also at his Milton Strand Theatre not long after its installation at Farmington Strand Theatre.
TALKING MOVIES COMING TO THE STRAND THEATRE. The fact that Manager W.E. Young is ill will not in any way interrupt the progress of installing talking movies at the Strand theatre. The machine has been shipped and will be set up as soon as it can be adjusted to the acoustic conditions of the theatre, which undoubtedly will require some changes. It is estimated that two weeks will be required for the entire process. As soon as this work is completed billing of some of the best pictures will be undertaken and Farmington and vicinity will be in a position to enjoy the latest innovation of the screen (Farmington News, April 5, 1929).
SILVER SLIPPER AT MILTON. Have you heard the latest about Cy Green’s Toonerville Jazz Band? Well, Cy and his musicians will journey to Milton this Friday evening, October 11, and will perform at the Silver Slipper, rain or shine Manager W.E. Young announces that moving pictures will precede the dancing from 7 to 8.30, and from the close of the picture program until the zero hour dancing will be featured with novelty introductions. Enjoy Ye Olde Tyme band at the Sliver Slipper (Farmington News, October 11, 1929).
STRAND THEATRE. Manager W.E. Young announced today that the installation of his new Vitaphone equipment, including motors and horns, has completely perfected the talking movies at his well-known amusement resort, the Strand, and his regular daily programs of highest class, new release pictures are to be resumed on Monday, January 6. A sure treat in “Broadway Scandals,” with Sally O’Neil and Jack Egan, is billed for Friday and Saturday, January 3 and 4 (Farmington News, January 3, 1930).
SILVER SLIPPER PAVILION. The Silver Slipper Pavilion in Milton will celebrate its third anniversary this Friday evening with a dance that will open the reason at this popular amusement resort. The decorations that have been prepared for the occasion will make a beautiful background for the gay crowd that will be on hand for the big time and novelties will be introduced throughout the evening. If it is a hot night the weather won’t matter for there will be cool breezes right off the river also big electric fans. Music will be furnished by Billy French and his vaudeville orchestra (Farmington News, June 6, 1930).
SILVER SLIPPER. If you have not heard Billy French’s Vaudeville orchestra, you have a big time ahead. This team of musicians will be at the Silver Slipper in Milton this Friday evening June 13 and all your friends will be there. You’ll enjoy dancing by cool breezes by the river and big electric fans. Other features will be electric novelty displays and moonlight dances. There will be dancing at the Silver Slipper every Friday night (Farmington News, June 13, 1930).
SILVER SLIPPER PAVILION. The dance at the Silver Slipper last Friday night was accorded a good patronage, and all enjoyed the novelties introduced for the event. This Friday evening June 20 will mark another date for this resort. French’s Vaudeville orchestra will furnish the music and there will be captivating electrical and novel features that will be of unusual amusement to the patrons of the Silver Slipper at Milton. Remember there will be dancing there every Friday night (Farmington News, June 20, 1930).
Walter E. Young, a theatre manager (movies), aged forty-one years (b. NH), headed a Farmington, NH, household at the time of the Fifteenth (1930) Federal Census. His household included his wife (of twenty-two years), Edna M. [(Olsen)] Young, aged forty-two years (b. NH), his children, Norma A. Young, aged eleven years (b. NH), and Walter H. Young, aged nine years (b. NH), and his aunt, Isabel Billings, a widow, aged seventy years (b. NH). Walter E. Young owned their house at 62 North Main Street, which was valued at $4,000. They had a radio set.
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directories of 1931, 1935, 1936, and 1939, as proprietor of the Strand Theatre, with his house at 62 N. Main street. The Strand Theatre, Walter E. Young, proprietor, appeared at 14 Central street.
Son Walter H. Young had an attack of appendicitis and had an appendectomy operation, March 18, 1931. (His WW II military draft registration would mention his appendectomy scar).
PERSONAL. Master Walter Young, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Young, is a patient in the Rochester hospital, where he underwent surgery for an attack of appendicitis Wednesday night (Farmington News, [Friday,] March 20, 1931).
FREE VEGETABLE MATINEE FOR THE CHILDREN, STRAND THEATRE, MONDAY. W.E. Young has made a very generous announcement in behalf of the local relief movement next Monday, December 14. Mr. Young will open bis theatre, after school, for a children’s matinee. There is no question but all youngsters who “know their vegetables” will be there. Not one cent of money is asked for the admission of any child, but each one is requested to bring a donation of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, cabbages, turnips, etc., or other food stuff. All of the provisions deposited at the box office at this matinee will be delivered to the local welfare committee for distribution where they will do the most good. To insure a special attraction for the children, Mr. Young has promised a picture that will just suit them – “Side Show,” with Winnie Lightner, the world famed comedienne in the starring role. This novel idea is sure to make a big hit with the boys and girls, and it is not hard to imagine how that heap of provisions will pile up through this arrangement by the management of the Strand theatre (Farmington News, December 11, 1931).
In 1932, Walter E. Young owned Milton real estate valued at $3,500, on which he paid $81.20 in town property taxes. Although not explicitly stated, this would have been his Milton Strand Theatre / Silver Slipper Pavilion property.
George E. Willey, who is having such a popular run of success at his Tuesday night dances at Middleton Corner, featured a capacity crowd last Tuesday evening, having as his musical drawing card Paul Ross and His Gang. This orchestra will be a regular attraction at this dance until further notice (Farmington News, June 17, 1932).
LOCAL. The state republican committee announces the following itinerary of republican rallies for this immediate locality. At Strand theatre Milton Tuesday evening, October 25, speakers William Parker Straw of Manchester, republican nominee and candidate for Congress from the first district, and the republican candidates for county offices. Rally will be held at 8 o’clock and everybody is welcome. At Strafford town hall Thursday evening, October 27, at 8 o’clock, speakers will be republican candidates for county office, and it is expected that other speakers will be heard. Farmington town hall November 6, at 8 o’clock, speakers Norris H. Cotton of Concord and the republican county candidates. Henry Wilson American band will furnish music and there will be a parade and fireworks. Everybody is welcome and invited to participate in the jubilee (Farmington News, October 21, 1932).
SILVER SLIPPER AT MILTON OPENED BY GEORGE E. WILLEY. The famous Silver Slipper at Milton, which has been closed for some time, has been reopened by George E. Willey and on the opening date, Tuesday evening, the fans flocked to Milton in response to his announcement. Mr. Willey entertained an enthusiastic crowd that promises support of the venture with their continued patronage and there seems no doubt that the one-time popularity of this resort will be fully reinstated. Dance programs will be conducted every Tuesday night and music will be furnished by the well-known Indigo Rhythm orchestra of Farmington, which will be a big drawing card (Farmington News, January 6, 1933).
Walter E. Young renovated his Farmington Strand Theatre, in February 1937, to feature a “new vestibule type,” including a box office.
NEW SEATS AND FRONT AT STRAND THEATRE. The boarding up of the front of the Strand theatre is only the beginning of an aspiring program of improvements that is being undertaken by W.E. Young. Within the past two weeks Mr. Young has equipped his theatre with chairs and now has turned his attention to the front which will be converted to the new vestibule type, with box office. When this is completed, he will take up other features of improvement which are under contemplation for making this an up-to-date amusement resort. The work now in hand will not interfere with the regular schedule of movie programs (Farmington News, February 12, 1937).
The Milton Strand Theatre / Silver Slipper Pavilion building was damaged by a serious fire, October 8, 1937.
FIRE THREAT AT MILTON. Wooden Block Badly Damaged This Morning. (By Associated Press). Milton, Oct. 8. – Fire, which for a time threatened Milton’s business district this morning, caused damage estimated by Fire Chief. Prank Mclntire at $6,000 to a wooden block owned by Walter Young of Farmington. A theatre, a restaurant and lodge room were damaged. A new water system installed recently was used for the first time (Portsmouth Hearld, October 8, 1937).
In 1939, Walter E. Young owned Milton real estate valued at $3,500, on which he paid $140.00 in town property taxes. This would have been his Milton Strand Theatre / Silver Slipper Pavilion property.
Don’t miss it. Jim Perkins is back behind the footlights – bringing the grand opening to the Silver Slipper at Milton, with a barn dance on Saturday evening, May 20. Music by Uncle Abe’s Mountaineers from Belmont. Clog dance contest and all the makin’s of a good time (Farmington News, May 19, 1939).
SECOND BARN DANCE. The second in a series of barn dances being held at the Silver Slipper hall at Milton will be held Saturday evening May 27. Jim Perkins, who is managing these dances, is well known in this capacity and his dances always draw a crowd. Music is furnished by Uncle Abe’s Mountaineers of Belmont, and one of the features will be a clog contest creation (Farmington News, May 26, 1939).
For his Saturday evening dance program at the Silver Slipper dance hall at Milton Village, on Saturday evening; July 8, James Perkins is bringing to the locality for their first appearance in the locality “The Harmony Boys,” featuring Eddie Tracy of Portland, Me. These boys are base hitters on the “Katahdin Mountaineers” broadcast hour and recently took the show at Bangor. Come and meet them in person under the management of Veteran “Jim” at Milton on July 8 (Farmington News, July 7, 1939).
TENERIFFE SPORTS CLUB WINTER CARNIVAL AT MILTON NEXT SATURDAY AND SUNDAY. The major interest of sports fans in this vicinity is centered on the two days’ carnival under the auspices of the Teneriffe Sports club to be held at Milton on Saturday and Sunday, January 27 and 28. All day programs of winter sports will be in order. The opening date will be climaxed with the carnival ball at the Silver Slipper ballroom with the Blue Ribbon orchestra to furnish a dance program from 8 to 12 (Farmington News, January 26, 1940).
LOCAL. Mrs. W.E. Young was in Boston a part of last week and attended a fashion show at the Vespen George School of Art, where her daughter, Miss Norma Young, is a student. The latter was one of forty students who modeled garments of their own construction (Farmington News, April 26, 1940).
Walter E. Young, a manager (theatre) aged fifty-one years (b. NH), headed a Farmington, NH, household at the time of the Sixteenth (1940) Federal Census. His household included his wife, Edna M. [Olsen)] Young, a hairdresser (at home), aged fifty-two years (b. NH), his children, Norma A. Young, aged twenty-one years (b. NH), and Walter H. Young, aged nineteen years (b. NH), and his guest, Hazel M. Leighton, a cashier (theatre), aged forty years (b. NH). Walter E. Young owned their house at 62 North Main Street, which was valued at $4,200. They had all resided in the “same house” in 1935.
Walter E. Young appeared in the Farmington, NH, directory of 1941, as proprietor of the Strand Theatre, with his house at 62 N. Main street. The Strand Theatre, Walter E. Young, proprietor, appeared at 14 Central street.
FOR SALE. Ford roadster, all in running condition. Take it away for $25. W.E. Young, Farmington (Farmington News, September 19, 1941).
Son Walter Harris Young of 565 East Magnolia, L.A., Burbank, CA, registered for the WW II military draft in Burbank, CA, February 16, 1942. He was twenty-one years old (b. Farmington, NH, October 4, 1920), and was employed at Plant One of the Vega Aircraft Corp, Burbank, CA. His telephone number was CH6-3219, and his contact person was Mrs. Walter E. Young of 62 No. Main Street, Farmington, NH. He was of a 5′ 6″ tall, weighed 151 pounds, with brown eyes, brown hair, and a light complexion. He had an appendectomy scar on his right side.
Walter Eugene Young of 62 No. Main Street, Farmington, NH, registered for the WW II military draft in Rochester, NH, April 27, 1942. He was fifty-three years old (b. Rochester, NH, April 6, 1888), married, and was self-employed at 16 Central Street in Farmington, NH, as a theatre proprietor. His telephone number was 3441, and his contact person was Edna Young of 62 No. Main Street, Farmington, NH. He was of a 5′ 5″ tall, weighed 180 pounds, with brown eyes, brown hair, and a light complexion. He had a tattoo on his left arm.
RED’S MUSIC MAKERS OPEN SILVER SLIPPER AT MILTON. On Thanksgiving night, this Thursday, November 25, Red’s Music Makers will hold a grand opening dance at the Silver Slipper in Milton and will feature their sax team which composes one of the best dance bands in New England. This dance will be followed by a series of Saturday night dates at this well-known dance hall. The Silver Slipper formerly was one of the most popular recreation centers in this vicinity and the dance fans will hail with enthusiasm its opening under the management of Red’s Music Makers. Remember that every Saturday night you have a date at the Silver Slipper (Farmington News, November 26, 1943).
JACK HOWARD, OPENING SILVER SLIPPER AT MILTON. The dance fans of this vicinity will follow Jack Howard to Milton this Friday night, May 5, when he will open the Silver Slipper ballroom for weekly dances. His famous All Ace band will be the musical feature and it is expected that the hall will be packed. The well-known Silver Slipper always has been a popular amusement resort and Jack Howard has the biggest dance following of any amusement promoter over a wide area. These attractions without question will overflow the house on every open date (Farmington News, May 5, 1944).
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL OPENING OF THE Silver Slipper Ball Room AT MILTON, N.H., BY JACK HOWARD AND HIS FAMOUS All Ace Band (5 pieces), Friday, May 12. THIS SAME BAND WILL APPEAR AT THE Silver Slipper Ball Room, Milton, N.H. The dance-loving public sure knows where to go for a good time, and a more orderly crowd of dancers could not have been found in the state. It just goes to show you how Mr. Howard conducts these dances. Through a mistake made in transportation last week there has been different arrangements made for Friday night and there will be plenty of cars leaving the square at 7.45 p.m., 50¢ round trip, that will take care of every one who wishes to enjoy an evening of sport, pastime and pleasure at this popular dancing resort. Admission 60¢, Tax Included. Dancing 8.30 p.p. to 12.30 a.m. Refreshments by Hanson. “Where Old Friends Meet” (Farmington News, May 12, 1944).
ANOTHER GOOD TIME AT THE Silver Slipper Ball Room, MILTON, N.H., Friday, May 19, Where JACK HOWARD And His All Ace Band (5 PIECES) WILL AGAIN HOLD FORTH FEATURING, “ROSIE,” THAT SENSATIONAL TRAP DRUMMER THAT YOU HAVE ALL HEARD ABOUT, ALONG WITH PROF. JACKSON AND HIS TALKING BANJO, “STAN” DOLLIVER WITH THAT OLD SLIP HORN, GEORGE GOODALL AND HIS BANJO, ENDING UP WITH “PEEWEE” FROST AT THE PIANO. THE DANCE LOVING PUBLIC IS FAST COMING TO REALIZE THAT FOR A GOOD TIME GO TO MILTON, N.H., WHERE OLD FRIENDS MEET. DANCING EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE SILVER SLIPPER WITH NEW FEATURES ADDED EACH WEEK. ADMISSION 50¢, TAX 10¢; TOTAL 60¢. DANCING 8.30 P.M. to 12.30 A.M. REFRESHMENTS BY HANSON (Farmington News, May 19, 1944).
ANOTHER BIG NITE AT THE Silver Slipper Ball Room, MILTON, N.H., Fri., May 26th, Where JACK HOWARD And His All Ace Band (5 PIECES) WILL AGAIN HOLD FORTH IN AN EVENING OF FUN AND FROLIC FOR THE DANCE LOVING PUBLIC. “WHERE OLD FRIENDS MEET.” The Silver Slipper Ballroom is fast becoming one of the pleasure spots in this section of the state, and with the increasing of attendance each week it goes to show you what a musical treat you are missing if you don’t follow the crowd on Friday nights. ADMISSION 60¢ Tax Included. DANCING 8.30 P.M. UNTIL 12.30 A.M., REFRESHMENTS BY HANSON. WATCH for the hand bills on the opening of the Middleton Dance Hall, Middleton, N.H. (Farmington News, May 26, 1944).
“By Special Request” From the dance fans I have been asked to change the Friday Nite dance that has been held at the Silver Slipper Ball Room, Milton, N.H., to the Old Town Hall “Where Old Friends Meet,” MIDDLETON, N.H. So on Friday Nite {This Week} July 21, Jack Howard and his Three Aces will appear at one of the coolest spots in New England for the rest of the season. Dancing From 9 P.M. Until 1 A.M. And of course, Every Tuesday Ev’ng, THE THREE ACES AT Middleton Town Hall (Farmington News, July 21, 1944).
Jack Howard and his All Ace Band continued to perform at the Middleton Town Hall through August 5, 1944 (Farmington News, August 5, 1944).
FORTIETH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF MR. AND MRS. W.E. YOUNG. Many relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Walter E. Young visited them at their home on North Main street last Saturday in celebration of their fortieth wedding anniversary. Open house was observed during the afternoon and until the early hours of the following morning. The home was attractively decorated with cut flowers, many of which were gifts for the event, and the household radiated hospitality from garret to the especially arranged basement. About seven o’clock the large party was summoned to the dining room where upward of forty persons enjoyed a turkey dinner. When Mr. and Mrs. Young plan a dinner they know just the type of menu and the way to prepare it to make it a success and on this occasion it was tops. After the long period occupied with dining, the guests were reluctant to leave the pleasant atmosphere and many remained until the small hours of the morning. Mr. and Mrs. Young came to Farmington about thirty-five years ago and engaged in the moving picture business. Those were the days of the silent films. In the block which they now own their friends first knew the theatre as Dreamland, but later they awakened to the signs of the times and the favorite amusement place became known as the New Strand, and from time to time it was modernized to become a theatre where patrons from their home town and surrounding communities have enjoyed many leisure hours. More recently they purchased the Oak Birch Inn properties at Alton Bay, and their contacts there have extended their acquaintance over a wide area and from a great many have come expressions of good wishes on their anniversary. These Included presents in large numbers, among which from a group of relatives was the novel gift of a clock with door chimes combination. The guests who sat down to the anniversary dinner included the following: Mr. and Mrs. John Perrault, Mr. and Mrs. Howell Preston, Mrs. Olga Massey, Mr. and Mrs. Leland Currier, Mr. and Mrs. John Callahan, Mr. and Mrs. Sumner Jenness, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hervey, all of Rochester, Mr. and Mrs. William Bishop and Mr. and Mrs. Alden Phillips, Kittery, Me., Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Jones, Bath, Me., Mr. and Mrs. Shirley Pillsbury, Swampscott, Mass., Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Viccaro, Merrimacport, Mass., Mr. and Mrs. Leston Gray and Walter H. Young of Farmington, Mrs. Fred Churchill, Exeter, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Thomas, Farmington, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Tufts, Salem, Mass., Mr. and Mrs. Garvin Beverly, Mass. (Farmington News, December 26, 1947).
The Teneriffe Sports Club’s annual winter carnival ball of 1948 is the last known local newspaper mention of the Silver Slipper being used as a dance hall.
WINTER SPORTS CARNIVAL AND BALL AT MILTON FEBRUARY 21 AND 22. Under the sponsorship of the Teneriffe Sports club, the 11th annual winter carnival and ball will be held in Milton, Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22. The carnival program has been arranged and will be as follows: Saturday February 21, children: ski races will be held at 1.30 p.m. Saturday night carnival ball at the Silver Slipper ballroom with dancing from eight to twelve to the music of Art Turner and his orchestra. Coronation of carnival queen will be held at 10.30 o’clock, during the ball, and awarding of prizes will be made. On Sunday February 22 men 8 and women s open downhill and slalom ski races will be held beginning at 1.30 o’clock. There will also be skiing for all and an electric rope tow will be put into service. This annual carnival is expected to attract many Farmington sports fans, as well as fans from other nearby communities, and it is hoped that the weatherman will provide good conditions for this headline event (Farmington News, February 20, 1948).
The storefronts, as well as meetings by various groups, may have continued for years beyond the dance hall and movie theatre. (The Strand building itself continued to be assessed for taxes under that name through at least 1967).
Daughter Norma Agnes Young married in New Durham, NH, May 28, 1948, Leston Elmer Gray, both of Farmington, NH. She was a store manager, aged twenty-seven years, and he was a shoe worker, aged twenty-one years. Rev. Charles H. Moorhouse performed the ceremony. Gray was born in Farmington, NH, circa 1927, son of Everett L. and Sadie G. (Dewhurst) Gray.
In the Milton valuation of 1949, Walter E. Young owned the “Strand building and land,” which was valued at $4,750.
Walter E. Young, a manager (theatre, real estate), aged sixty-two years (b. NH), headed a Farmington, NH, household at the time of the Seventeenth (1950) Federal Census. His household included his wife, Edna M. [(Olsen)] Young, aged sixty-two years (b. NH), and his lodger, Hazel M. Leighton, a ticket seller (theatre), aged forty-eight years (b. NH). They resided at 62 East Grove Street.
Leston E. Gray, a truck driver (bld’g contractor), aged twenty-five years (b. NH), headed a Farmington, NH, household at the time of the Seventeenth (1950) Federal Census. His household included his wife, Norma A. [(Young)] Gray, a stitcher (shoe factory), aged thirty-one years (b. NH).
Walter E. Young, owner of the Strand, Farmington, N.H., has returned from Florida (Box Office, 1956).
Walter E. Young died of ventricular fibrillation and circulatory collapse in Rochester, NH, May 15, 1956, aged sixty-eight years. He was a married theater operator. Robert E. Lord, M.D., signed the death certificate.
Walter Young, Motion Picture Dean, Succumbs After Attack. Funeral is scheduled this afternoon for Walter E. Young, one of New England’s leading motion picture exhibitors, who died in Frisbie hospital, Rochester, early Tuesday morning following a heart attack a week ago. Services at 2 p.m. were to be conducted in the Congregational church by Rev. Linwood C. Potter. Burial will be in the family lot in Farmington cemetery. A native of Rochester, Mr. Young had come to Farmington in 1912. He purchased the local theater in the then K. of P. Hall and has operated it since. In addition, he operated the Oak Birch Inn in Alton. From time to time, Mr. Young had operated motion picture houses in Somersworth, Pittsfield, Gilmanton, New Durham and Milton. The 50th anniversary of entry in the movies was this year. Mr. Young served in the military forces in World War I and later was commander of the Legion post here. He was a past chancellor of the Harmony Lodge, K. of P., and had been president of the Holding Corporation, the Businessmen’s association and served as senior warden at the Congregational church. A trumpeter, he played with the Henry Wilson band and also with other musical groups here and in Rochester. Mr Young was born 68 years ago, the only child of the late Walter and Alice (Tufts) Young. In 1907 he married Miss Edna Olsen of Rochester. The couple had two children, Norma, now Mrs. Leston Gray, and Walter H. of Boca Grande Fla., and Alton Bay. Three grandchildren also survive. Bearers at the rites were Sumner Jenness, John Callaghan, Howell Preston, Frederick Churchill, Laurent Ploude and Arthur Gray, all associates in theatrical activity. Otis funeral home handled arrangements (Farmington News, May 17, 1956).
In the Milton valuation of 1956, the heirs of Walter E. Young owned the “Strand land and bldg.,” which was valued at $7,300.
Mrs. Walter E. Young, widow of a long-time movie theatre owner in Farmington, has left for Boca Grande, Fla., where she will spend the rest of the winter with her son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Walter H. Young (Box Office, 1960).
In the Milton valuation of 1960, Edna M. [(Olsen)] Young owned the “Strand land and bldg.,” which was valued at $7,300.
In the Milton valuation of 1965, Milton Garage, Inc., owned the “Strand land and bldg.,” which was valued at $5,000.
In the Milton valuation of 1967, Milton Garage, Inc., owned the “Strand land and bldg.,” which was valued at $5,000. The fate of the Strand building and land after the 1967 valuation remains unclear. (The building is not standing in the present day).
Edna M. (Olsen) Young died March 29, 1988, aged one hundred years.
Daughter Norma A. (Young) Gray died in Rochester, NH, April 5, 2011.
For Milton’s other dance venue see Milton and Frolic Haven – 1925-37
References:
Find a Grave. (2012, November 16). Norma Agnes Young Gray. Retrieved from www.findagrave.com/memorial/100791655/norma_agnes_gray
Find a Grave. (2014, November 24). Walter Eugene Young. Retrieved from www.findagrave.com/memorial/139179254/walter-eugene-young
Wikipedia (2023, September 30). Classified (1925 film). Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classified_(1925_film)
Wikipedia (2024, February 8). Frontier of the Stars (film). Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frontier_of_the_Stars
Wikipedia. (2024, February 5). Heliotrope (film). Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heliotrope_(film)
Wikipedia. (2023, September 11). Right to Love (1920 film). Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Right_to_Love_(1920_film)
Wikipedia (2023, July 16). Side Show (film). Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Side_Show_(film)
Wikipedia. (2022, November 16). The White Desert. Retrieved from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_White_Desert
Milton Observer 