Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Ralph and Gladys Boice filmed local events for more than 40 years, rushed the 16mm film back to their home and had the local news clip ready to show before the evening's first movie.
It was a great draw for The Strand Theater, North Buffalo Street, Warsaw. The couple owned and operated the movie house from 1935 until 1955, changing to the newly built Boice Theatre, corner of Center and Indiana streets, and running it until it was destroyed by fire in 1973.
The Boices' film work totaled more than 100 reels.
A small portion of the films have been restored and are available for viewing at the Kosciusko County Jail Museum, 121 N. Indiana St., Warsaw.
Ralph and Gladys filmed many local events prior to World War II. They were especially devoted to filming all departing service men, particularly draftees and their families.
On a touch-screen kiosk in the genealogy library, the black-and-white clips are easily viewed with the touch of a fingertip. Available are events like Armistice Day parades, ceremonies and speakers of 1943, 1944 and 1945; registration for the draft and the removal of the courthouse cannon that was melted down for the war effort.
Searches for individual names can been entered, too.
Viewers might recognize someone not listed. The "film" program can be stopped and the information can be added.
The 16mm film quality is generally good. The kiosk has a print option. The screen can be paused at any point and reproduced for a small fee.
World War II-era clips of the Salvation Army, Red Cross and end-of-war celebrations also are included.
A special showing of selected segments is planned for Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. in the Jail Museum.
The museum is open to the public. Hours are Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 267-1078.
