Iconic Marquee of Park Theaters in Park Rapids Destroyed in Fire

Park Rapids Fire Department was called to the scene and put out the fire within minutes

PARK RAPIDS, Minn. — A classic symbol that’s been on Main Street since 1938 in Park Rapids has been damaged.

The iconic marquee of the Park Theater, that’s been built for 79 years, went up in flames.

Just before 7 p.m. Monday, one of the owners smelled something burning.

He realized that small flames were coming from the marquee just outside the theater.

Park Rapids Fire Department was called to the scene and put out the fire within minutes.

More than 50 people were inside and the building was safely evacuated.

Fire officials say their preliminary investigation shows the blaze may have been caused by an electrical problem.

Although the sign has been severely damaged, no one was hurt.

“The biggest thing is that we’re fortunate that nobody got injured, nobody got hurt, everybody got out safely,” said Scott Wilson, who is a co-owner. “And the firemen showed up and put out the fire. You know, we don’t anticipate this ever happening but when it does, hopefully you’re prepared and try to get people out and that’s what we tried to do.”

The movie theater is hoping to be up and running for the public by Friday.

Scott said they would like the new sign to be almost identical to its original style.

Community members have offered their support to replace or repair the beloved sign.

On KVRR Local News at 9, hear more from Wilson and fire officials.