Old Theater/Library

Welcome to one of Cascade’s most historic sites, where progress, innovation, and community spirit have come together to shape the town we know today. Let’s take a journey through Cascade’s fascinating past, beginning with a groundbreaking event that lit up the town—literally.

On March 29, 1895, the Cascade Pioneer announced a major transformation for the town: the founding of the Cascade Light and Power Company. Visionaries James A. Hayes, H. L. Dehner, D. M. Finley, L. P. Freeman, and J. W. Beatty pooled their resources, raising $7,000 to bring electricity to Cascade. By July 26, 1895, Cascade's nights were no longer dark—electric arc lights and incandescent bulbs bathed the town in a dazzling glow, forever changing its landscape.

But Cascade's spirit of progress didn’t start with electricity. Years earlier, in 1881, Cascade celebrated the rise of local creameries, led by C. J. Doxee. These creameries processed 12,000 pounds of milk daily, fueling the local economy and solidifying the town's role as a dairy powerhouse.

Flash back even further to 1841, when George G. Banghart introduced dry goods to the community, planting the seeds of commerce. Cascade’s early landmarks—the hotel, store, flour mill, and sawmill built by John Sherman and Arthur Thomas in 1837—provided the foundation for the town’s development. By 1840, the town had its first school, taught by L. Z. Styles in a home. Over the years, the community grew, with post offices, law offices, and thriving businesses like N. Shaffer's Livery & Feed Stable (1876) and Frank Banghart’s Men’s Clothing Store (1878).

One of Cascade’s most beloved landmarks was the Cascade Theatre, originally built and known as the ‘Opera House.’ It was the town’s original community center, hosting meetings, dinners, and social gatherings. Upstairs, residents could gather for additional events, fostering a strong sense of community. After many years, the theatre closed, leaving the space empty for a time. But in the early 20th century, the theater was revived by Robt. K. Burns, who installed sound equipment to bring ‘talking movies’ to Cascade. This new era of entertainment reconnected the community and sparked excitement, much like the original opera house had done decades earlier.

However, the building eventually met the wrecking ball, and the current site was home to the former  Cascade Public Library built in 1968.

 In 2024, construction began on a brand-new public library, continuing Cascade’s tradition of embracing progress while preserving its rich history. The library is the perfect example of how the community continues to grow and adapt to the needs of its residents.

From the first electric lights to the hum of the creameries, to the magic of the movies, Cascade’s history is a testament to the resilience and forward-thinking nature of its people. The town has embraced innovation while never forgetting the roots that made it all possible. Whether through the flicker of early light or the excitement of the silver screen, Cascade’s story is one of progress, perseverance, and community pride.