After rereading the clippings about the Shaw young men and their shenanigans, I wondered about the Dresden Grand Opera House. Googling turned up nothing, so I contacted the Facebook page, “Chatham-Kent Pictures of Our Past.” They referred me to the Facebook page “Dresden Virtual History Group.” Here, I was welcomed by the amazing Marie Carter and found a treasure trove of photos and information. Marie is unaware of any Dresden Grand Opera House, but she did provide me with some great photos.

It doesn’t appear that any of my ancestors are pictured here, but it’s hard to miss the gent in blackface in the front row! This group performed at the Shaw Theater, over the old creamery in Dresden.