The Intriguing History and Haunting Legacy of St Johns Theatre

Maurin’s Theatre first opened its doors in 1931, quickly becoming a beloved showplace where the community could gather and enjoy the latest cinematic releases. Advertisements at the time proudly announced that movies would be shown with “Wonderful RCA Sound,” a cutting-edge feature that set the theatre apart. By 1937, Maurin’s Theatre became the first movie house between Baton Rouge and New Orleans to offer the luxury of air conditioning, making it a popular destination during the sweltering Louisiana summers.

For nearly five decades, Maurin’s Theatre was the heart of the community in Reserve and its surrounding areas. Generations of locals have fond memories of gathering with friends and family to watch films, a testament to the theatre’s importance in the social fabric of the region. However, on May 27, 1979, the curtain fell for the final time with a screening of Godzilla vs. Megalon, marking the end of an era.

Despite its closure, the building that once housed Maurin’s Theatre lives on as the St. John Theatre. This historic venue is said to be haunted by the ghost of its original owner, Mr. Maurin, along with the apparitions of several children. Numerous accounts describe seeing these spectral children both inside and outside the theatre, with eerie sounds of laughter and play echoing through the empty halls.

Historical Marker for Maurin's Theatre

Poltergeist-like activity is also frequently reported. Witnesses have described doors mysteriously opening and closing by themselves, and the unmistakable sound of footsteps in deserted areas. One particularly chilling account from around 2002 involves a retired deputy who, while making his rounds near the theatre, saw a young girl with pigtails standing by the ticket booth. As he approached and called out to her, she began to skip away, only to vanish into thin air when he tried to follow.

Another unsettling incident involved an electrician working alone in the theatre one afternoon. He reported hearing the sound of furniture being moved, but upon investigating, found no one else in the building. These inexplicable occurrences have only added to the theatre’s mystique, making it a focal point for local ghost stories and paranormal enthusiasts.

Louis J Maurin (Original Owner)

The St Johns Theatre, with its rich history and haunting legacy, remains an enduring symbol of the community’s cultural heritage. Whether remembered for its pioneering spirit in the early days of cinema or its eerie reputation in later years, it continues to captivate the imagination of all who hear its story.

St Johns Theatre Guided Ghost Hunt

Join us on September 21, 2024, for a guided ghost hunt and see if you experience any of the haunting claims for yourself.