From “Madam – How would you like to sit behind the hat you are wearing?” to “3 minutes intermission while changing pictures,” these lantern slides were created in 1912 as movie theater etiquette notes, reminders and announcements.
The Library of Congress, who own the original lantern slide prints, describe them as text “superimposed on humorous photograph, and the whole shown in a fancy carved frame.”
These images were created by Scott & Van Altena (John D Scott and Edward Van Altena), who were considered some of the leading slide makers of the era.
Granted, they’re not exactly like the loud and eye-popping previews you see before movies today — or even the dancing soda cups of the 1950s — but they got the job done, and amused the crowds at the same time.
Motion picture etiquette: Welcome (1912)
Loud talking or whistling not allowed
Ladies kindly remove your hats
Madam, how would you like to sit behind the hat you are wearing
Please applaud with hands only
Kindly remain seated
Family-friendly!
Ladies and children are cordially invited to this theatre. No offensive pictures are ever shown here
Your ad could be here!
Advertise your business on this screen and get results. See the manager
Change of song to-morrow
If annoyed when here, please tell the management
Intermission
3 minutes intermission while changing pictures
3 minutes intermission while changing pictures
Don’t forget your umbrella or other parcels
Good night
