ALEXANDRIA, Minn. — Most people like to go to the movies. It's something Alexandria, Minnesota, residents have been doing for a very long time — at least since 1908.

Newspaper records indicate the first movie theater in Alexandria was located above Raiter's meat market, opening in March of 1908.

The Bijou Family Theatre offered general admission prices of 10 cents (about $3.49 in 2025 dollars) and shows featuring a variety of one-reel movies from the United States and Europe.

"Mr. Thorn, the proprietor, receives new films twice each week, and is sparing no expense to give a good, clean entertainment," the Alexandria Citizen News reported, adding, "If you want a seat you had better go early, as the hall is usually crowded."

The theater didn't last long in its original location, partly b

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