The Essoldo Cinema (1950-1965)

Handel's Messiah programme.jpg

The programme for the Stretford and District Choral and Orchestral Society's performance of Handel's 'Messiah', 1953. Trafford Local Studies collection, cat. ref. TRA838

After a change in ownership in 1950, the Longford Cinema became the Essoldo Cinema, continuing its legacy as a popular local cinema, showcasing the newest films of the era, as well as hosting theatre shows.

Rumours suggest that the name ‘Essoldo’ came from the first names of new owner: Soloman Sheckman, his wife Esther and their daughter Dorothy. Mr. Sheckman set up the Essoldo Cinema Circuit and purchased many cinemas throughout the country, making it the third-largest cinema chain in Britain.

TL01262.png

The Edge Lane entrance to the Essoldo Cinema, 1967. Trafford Local Studies collection, cat. ref. TL01262

However, with the popularity of television, the Essoldo, along with many other cinema and entertainment businesses, ultimately suffered. By 1965, the cinema was forced to close its doors, with The Hill showing during its final week, and one of the Quatermass films rumoured to be the last film shown there.

OS map of Stretford 1955.jpg

Detail: Ordnance Survey map of Stretford showing the Essoldo Cinema, 1955. Trafford Local Studies Collection, cat. ref. 96273577

The Essoldo Cinema (1950-1965)