Staff and residents of the Majestic House Apartments in Tamaqua held an anniversary party to the building’s 33 years. In addition, a number of residents were recognized over 15 years or residency. They were Betty Hafer (16 years), Darlene Deitrich (16 years), Mary Herbig (33 years), Eleanor Moneta (22 years), Esther Stofocik (28 years) and Patricia Tina (15 years).
During the party, staff Sandra Davis (Supportive Services) and Cheryl Martuscelli (Property Manager) explained the history of the building. Their notes read:
“The property on which the Majestic House was built was purchased in 1923 by a gentleman named George J. Higgins. That property was known as the Kolt property and was purchased for $40,200. At the time, the population of Tamaqua was 13,407 residents.
In October of that year, it was announced that a modern hotel and theatre was to be built on the property at a cost of $550,000.
On December 22, 1924, the Majestic Theatre opened its doors with a seating capacity of 1,200 people.
The hotel was opened 4 months later on April 20, 1925. They were advertising rooms for rent at a cost of $2.50 per night for inside rooms and $4.00 for outside rooms. There was 120 rooms in the hotel. It included a coffee shop, barbershop and dining room.
In the 1960’s, both the theatre and hotel were at a closing point and were remodeled and housed unemployment office.
In 1980, a seventh story was added to the building and remodeled into small apartments for the elderly – today known as the Majestic House.”
The Majestic House has 73 apartments.

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