All this month, we learn about historic theaters across the state as part of National Historic Preservation Month. We continue the series with stories from a man whose own family history is bound up in his hometown theater. Tommy Lam’s grandfather started the DeSoto Theatre in Rome, Georgia, way back in the silent film era. He looked back on a century of screenings, segregation and more.

The DeSoto Theatre was a recipient of a grant for historic preservation. To apply for the latest round of funding, click here.