Sacramento, CA
Woodland Opera House
The history of Woodland Opera House originated in a small town called Woodland, California that
was originally populated by the Hill Patwin Native Americans. Eventually various Europeans groups
immigrated to the land in the 1800’s and settled the area by providing a farming community that still thrives
today. Woodland is also currently noted for their transportation routes and contribution of agriculture.
The sleepy town of Woodland is very renowned for a beautiful historical site called the Woodland
Opera House originally built in 1885 and consequently was rebuilt in 1896 after being destroyed by a
fire. During this time, the theater was a huge success with over 300 touring companies performing on the
stage but dwindled by the year of 1913 due to growing popularity of motions pictures and an injury
lawsuit. By 1971, the Yolo County Historical Society purchased the building that was restored in
1981. Currently the establishment offers quality life entertainment all throughout the year, although, the
Woodland Opera House has earned a reputation that it is haunted.
One theory is that there is a fireman named W.W. Porter who wondering the theater making him known to
workers, talent, and at times the audiences. This ghost or floundering spirit was killed during the 1892 fire
and supposedly a burning wall collapsed on him during the fire. Some believe that the area where the
fireman died is the hub of much supernatural activity. Many other sightings include the chilling paranormal
occurrences in the north upper balcony and basement costume dressing rooms. Ironically, since this fire,
there have been several unexplained fires.
The ghosts presences have been described by spectators claiming they see smoke, visualizing thread
unwinding and objects flying on their own. Others believe that a great Polish Actress named Madame
Helen Modjeska who performed at the Woodland Opera House is also making herself present in
spiritual form, as has been known to materialize in present day at many other American Theaters she
performed within her life.
The Woodland Opera House seems to have a life of its own and has survived for many centuries. The
theater seems to offer much soul, spectacular entertainment and appreciation to audiences and visitors
alike.
Referenced and recommended sites:
http://wohtheatre.org
http://wohtheatre.org/tours.htm
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=488
http://insidewoodland.com/quickieview.cfm?quicknum=13
http://www.daviswiki.org/Woodland_Opera_House
http://www.haunted-places.com/sacramento_secrets.htm
All Rights Reserved
