Congressman Charles Hedding Rowland, born December 20, 1860, was one of several enterprising businessmen who engaged in coal mining operations in the Philipsburg Area.

Planning began in 1915, with construction starting in 1916, and completed in mid 1917 After completion of the construction of the theater, Rowland released this statement in a brochure distributed to the public on opening night in June, 1917: “The people of Philipsburg have long indulged the hope of a comfortable and commodious place of amusement and entertainment.

"I have felt that we should have a theatre building in Philipsburg of size, safety and perfection of appointment that would anticipate the future, maintain our best past traditions, reflect a progressive spirit, while affording us a place to spend a delightful evening at home.

The first story of the front part of the building contains the theatre's entrance way, outer lobby, and two commercial stores.

Despite the volumetric effects of the projecting marquee, recessed theatre and shop entrances, and bracketed cornice, the image is predominantly two-dimensional.

However, the use of decorative patterns in the brickwork, contrasting color and texture of materials, and architecture ornamentation contribute to a masterful composition.

Horizontal emphasis is provided by simple, bold lintels about the store fronts, a belt course at the base of the third story windows, a projecting cornice, and caps which line the top of the parapet wall.

The outer lobby of the Rowland theater features plate marble on the lower half of the walls, and murals depicting both Native American and local historical scenes on the upper halves.

Two staircases, one on each side wall, lead upstairs, converging at the entrances of the main office and board room, and ending in a ramp up to the balcony.

Approximately 400 seats, as well as handicap-accessible areas, adorn the main floor up to the edge of the orchestra pit.

The ceiling is vaulted where it meets with the steel support structure (a successful attempt to blend form and function, adding to the appealing look of the building), and once contained various ornate murals, which have since been mostly covered by white paint during restoration.

The frame of the stage is ornately decorated, and once featured similar murals to the ceiling (some examples are left exposed here as well).

Still visible are original, hand-carved wood accents over the doors leading up to the stage's side areas.

Ticket prices are as follows: The theater's stage can be used for a variety of events, including plays, choirs, and smaller orchestras.