The Story of Grove Theater

The Grove Theater opened December 12, 1920 as the first silent movie theater with a pipe organ in Elgin and seated 1,000 people.  It's first feature was a silent film called "Trumpet Island".  In 1929 the Grove Theater closed to convert the equipment to show sound movies.  The Depression hit and the theater remained closed until 1936.  The Grove, like many other theaters became obsolete due to competition from television and multi-screen theaters.  It closed for good in 1976.

The building was purchased by two real-estate developers (Mike Origer and Joe Elias) who planned on renovating the building as office space, but decided to create a micro-brewing concept.  Renovations began in January 1995 and the Original Prairie Rock Brewing Company opened October 30th, 1995.

Prairie Rock has since become an icon of the community offering excellent food, hand-crafted beer and great service in a beautifully renovated theater.  The building consists of different venues and offerings under one roof.  The Bar offers casual dining in a traditional Pub setting with live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.  The Dining Room captures the essence of the old Grove Theater providing an elegant dining experience.  Unique private rooms offer a perfect setting for almost any event or banquet. 

Prairie Rock Brewing Company is located in historic downtown Elgin, just one block north of the Grand Victoria Casino.