The black was for blackout. There was no on/off switch with arc spots because you had to adjust the arc every time it was turned back on, so you had a blackout or solid disc to shut off the light when it was not needed during a performance.
I've wanted to visit this location many times, and have even gone so far as to drive around behind the buildings, along the side road, but I just haven't been able to get up enough courage to venture in, due to safety reasons. In addition, finding someone else to make that trek is near to impossible.
Thank you for sharing photos of these beautiful buildings; there is so many stories I've heard over the years, friends who have visited and photos I've taken of the front exterior.
I live north of Staunton and visited the nearby museum about two months ago and it was still intact. Yes, I've heard several times that the reason it isn't dealt with is because of the asbestos. At this point, I'm not aware of any plans to tear it down so it will continue to sit. For now...
I do find it interesting that it's owned by the museum. I really do hope they find a better use for it than destruction. They (Staunton) should have learned something about preservation after saving their downtown. If you ever have a chance to go, it's a lovely downtown. It belongs in picture books.
When I was growing up in Kingston (just across the river) I used to go into this hotel and was always awestruck by the beauty of the place. When I drive from Kingston into Wilkes-Barre, it always made me smile.
No apparently it is time to say good-bye to what was once among the most beautiful buildings I have ever darkened the doorway of. Now instead of the smile when I cross the bridge, I think there will be a tear.
I don't know if anyone has made this observation, but t's almost as if there is blood flowing from the building... What horrors lie within, we will never know.