The Stroud Collection - Texan Theatre, no. 2 - Reavis and Danger

In this film from the Stroud collection, an entire community, dressed in their Sunday best, turns out for a daytime barbecue in what is probably the late 1930s. In addition to sharing a meal, the community enjoys a performance by Jeff Reavis and his Famous Trained Horse Danger that includes Danger’s signature trick of undoing a hogtie. Reavis and the Utopia, TX born Danger were a national sensation by 1945, making headlines as they took their act on tour. Donor Suzanne Stroud Santo tells the story of the films in this collection: "My family owned the Texan Theatre in Hamilton, Texas. During the Depression, a fellow from Hollywood, down on his luck, sold my grandfather his film equipment. Grandpa would go to community events in Hamilton County and film them, then develop them and have a "showing" to promote business." The family also owned the 281 Drive-In Theatre, the first Drive-In in Texas to install a swimming pool.