For many years it was a center of community life, and by 1960 it is still providing first-run movies for Hammond. During the week of January 14, the Columbia was showing"Operation Petticoat" starring Cary Grant and Tony Curtis.
The entryway to the theatre is narrow, providing space for a small business on either side of the entrance. The entryway widens into a small lobby, with the concession stand to one side. The Army Recruiting Station is located in one of the business spaces at the entrance to the Columbia, and an insurance broker occupies the other.
Information and photo from 1960 Hammond ConSurvey; additional information from 1960 Hammond Vindicator