Our History &
Restoration
Constructed in 1915 to house theatre performances, opera, concerts, and community events, Memorial Hall stands as a cultural cornerstone in Pine Plains. Restored to its original glory, its reincarnation as Stissing Center continues the original intent of the Mary Ellen Lapham Saunders who brought this venue to Pine Plains over a century ago.
Our History
Memorial Hall was constructed in 1915 and given to the Town of Pine Plains in memory of John McIntyre, his wife, Elizabeth Hauver and their children by their philanthropic granddaughter, Mary Ellen Lapham Saunders who grew up in Pine Plains with her grandparents.
The building is an example of Second Empire architecture that included a large auditorium, and was originally built to be the home for theatre performances, light opera and concerts as well as community events.
The Hall immediately became a focal point of community life in Pine Plains supplying meeting rooms and entertainment facilities. The auditorium was a venue for the showing of silent movies beginning in 1918 after a projection booth was installed. It also served as a draft board facility during WWI.
In 1935 it was remodeled and reopened as “The Pine Plains Theatre” where it became a first run movie house showing Hollywood fare until the late 1950’s. It then sat vacant until it was sold in the 1970’s where it was subdivided and used as a coffee shop, hair salon, offices and a laundromat. In the 1990’s it was again sold for development, which never took place.
Purchased at auction by three business partners - Christian Eisenbeiss, Ariel Shclein, and Jack Banning - with the intention to restore it and return it to its original purpose: an engine for economic growth, a beacon of cultural vibrance and to instill civic pride. The building was renovated and relaunched as Stissing Center on Saturday, September 7th, 2019 with an opening concert featuring Wynton Marsalis.
Photo by Jock Pottle
More Ways to Support
Our Mission
In addition to attending one of our wonderful events, there are many ways you can help support our mission.
Donate
Become a benefactor in our mission to deliver exceptional cultural programming in The Hudson Valley.
Volunteer
Join us in providing a memorable, welcoming, and entertaining experience to our wonderful guests.
Book Our Space
Create an unforgettable experience hosting your next event at this historic Dutchess County landmark.