The other day my dad told me that, when he was younger, seeing the Edna Theater meant that he was close to home. Edna, Texas has been my father’s family’s hometown for several generations, and I moved back during the pandemic. As I start a journey, taking a long sabbatical trip to reset and reenergize, I thought it fitting that one of my first blog posts is about home, roots, and the landmarks that let you know you are back.
What makes something a landmark? I think it is a combination of visibility, activity, and connection to the community. Traditionally landmarks were tall – meant to be seen from a distance and guide people to the town. They could be meeting places. They could be either religious or not. They are places that draw people together. They could be courthouses, churches, bell towers, etc.
Or as in Edna – the theater. It hasn’t really shown movies in my lifetime, but even without activity on the interior, the building has an impact on the people here in my hometown. People still use it as a backdrop for pictures and almost everyone has a memory there. My memories of the theater are of it opening for a movie one Halloween and driving through town to check out the announcements on the marque. Edna’s theater is rundown, but currently has an initiative to bring it back to a more active part of the life of the community. If you want to learn more about the history or restoration, go to Home (ednatheatre.com)
What is so special about landmarks? I think it is the feeling of belonging we get when we add our memories to the story the landmark tells. We are connected to the past and the community. If we are local, it is an extension of our family and friends. It lets us know, “I’m back, I’m home.” If we are visiting, it helps us orient ourselves and sheds light on the personality of the place. It lets us know, “I arrived” and for a short time we become connected to the community.
So over the next several weeks as I travel around and see various communities around the world, I will keep my eye out for the landmarks of a community, the place they have, and what makes them an integral part of the town. But I always know that when I get close to home the Edna Theater will be there to welcome me home.
What is the landmark in your town and what makes it special?