The Centennial Series

The city of Saratoga Springs was chartered on April 7, 1915. In celebration of our 100 years this summer, Roohan Realty brings you the “Centennial Series,” featuring the history of local properties – from origin to what we see today. Do you own a historic property or know one you’d like to see featured here? Submit an inquiry and our contributing writer will contact you.

History of 517-519 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Presently: Roohan Realty

The original structure was designed by S. Gifford Slocum and completed in 1893. Slocum was the architect for many of the neighboring buildings that still stand today: the Algonquin Building at 504-512 Broadway, the Moriarta house at 511 Broadway, and the old Firehouse at 543 Broadway.

The building was home to the Saratoga Club – a business and social club that was short lived, closing its doors in 1895 due to “lack of business” as reported in The Saratogian. But after a major remodel during the winter of 1929-1930, the club reopened with a dinner dance on May 21, 1930. Sadly the doors closed for good in 1932 and the building was torn down in 1936.

In 1937, movie mogul Walter A. Reade purchased the property and built the Colonial Revival theater. The doors opened July 28, 1937 showing the movie Lost Horizon. Home to Roohan Realty for more than 15 years, the original ticket counter still remains on the front facade.