Carlton Theatre - Detroit MI

Address: 13125-35 Fenkell
City: Detroit
State: MI
Zip: 48227
County: Wayne
Open: 1932
Capacity: 1000
Owner History:
Theater Type: Neighborhood House
Number of visits to this page: 6710
Disclaimer:

Please note that location entries may feature older photos or post card views that may not represent the current appearance, features, addresses, phone numbers, or contact names of the attraction. This site is intended to be a historical as well as current record of various attractions but it is not always possible to have up-to-date information due to the vast number of locations featured here. We ask you consult the propietor for current information.

General Information:

Source: Cinema Treasures

Opened as the Carlton in 1932, this Art Deco-style theater could seat around 1000. It was renamed the Surf in 1955, and a decade later reopened as the Variety. By the end of the 60s, the theater began showing adult features. It was closed in 1975, and has since been demolished.

Source: Andy Gray

This image is of the Carlton Theatre, at 13125-13135 Fenkell Avenue, and it was shot in June 1948. Similar to the Graystone, this theater appears to be in an older building that had recently been renovated. Family records don't indicate when Johnson Construction Co. might have worked on the Carlton. The marquee is an older more ornate style - perhaps dating to the 1930's. Two 1943 films "Sahara" (starring Humphrey Bogart) and "Destroyer" were playing when the photo was taken. The marquee also says: "De Luxe Pushback Seats" and "Academy of Proven Hits." On the right side of the photo you can see a worker standing on top of a Faygo Beverages truck which is parked in front of the soda shop next to the theater. Talk about Michigan history! The building has been demolished.

Info Updates:
4/4/2011 - David R Cox
My Dad, Eugene J. Cox who grew up on Littlefield and Eaton worked here in 1947 as an usher.
 Photos:3
Carlton Theatre - From Al Johnson
From Al Johnson
Carlton Theatre - Variety Surf Carlton From Frederick
Variety Surf Carlton From Frederick
Carlton Theatre - Old Photo
Old Photo
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