The Family Theater, ca. 1916. The Family was a vaudeville house located at about 21 S. Main St. The second story of the building, which still stands, was once home to Ida's Rooms and Dorothy's Rooms, famous bordellos. The Windbag Saloon now occupies the Reeves Music House space.

The poster in front of the theater touts the Frank Rich Musical Comedy Company, members of which are likely in these placarded automobiles, preparing for a publicity ride through town.

1907 newspaper ad for the Family Theater

It appears from newspaper archives that the Family Theater went out of business soon after the much larger and more opulent Marlow Theater opened in 1918.

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Reeves Music House • A. I. "Daddy" Reeves

A. I. "Daddy" Reeves (1864-1951) operated his music business in the above pictured location and at least two other Helena locations over the decades. Reeves was a beloved personality in Helena, and appears to have been the driving force behind musical entertainment and instruction in the community. Reeves was also an impresario of sorts, bringing to Helena various touring musical acts and companies, including John Philip Sousa's Band.

Reeves was deeply involved in charitable and fraternal efforts as well, serving as the city's favorite Santa Claus for 50 years. He also sponsored an annual "picnic" for the city's scruffy newsboys ("newsies"), which involved an outing to Alhambra Hot Springs or similar activity, a movie in town and other treats.

Reeves lived at the Masonic Home in the Helena valley from 1946 until his death in 1951. Oddly enough, there seems to be no formal obituary for him in the local paper (one might expect a lengthy and glowing one), but only a rather brief notice of his death, and burial in Forestvale Cemetery, with graveside Masonic services.

1918 newspaper ad for Reeves Music House