The Enigma (In a previous life The Crown) |
Originally a small chapel called the Baptist Memorial Chapel in Gasworks Lane, later renamed Station Rd. In 1911 the Baptist church moved to Shenley Rd and the Gem Cinema opened. Reported to be the smallest cinema in the world! - I can believe that! Admission was between 1d and 3d and the projector illuminated by limelight, showing a varied programme of "two reelers", short comics and on some days an interest feature. Later the building was used by the council as its rent and rates office and in later years it was converted into public conveniences. In 1998, 104 years later it became a florist shop, still maintaining the original building structure and many original features. |