When the Artcraft Theatre opened its doors in 1921, it was envisioned as a main draw to downtown Franklin. People who came to see a vaudeville show or silent movie would make a day of it, eating at nearby restaurants and shopping at downtown businesses. The theater would help raise the fortunes of the entire town.
Source: https://dailyjournal.net/2022/01/01/centennial-centerpiece-artcraft-theatre-celebrates-100-years/