In July of 1921, Dr. C.B. Walters broke ground on a new state-of-the-art building in downtown Louisa with a steam shovel. The upstairs was to be used as offices for Dr. Walters. The downstairs was divided into two rooms. The first was used as a modern pharmacy. The second was leased for use as a picture show.

The theater opened on New Year’s Eve, 1921. The theater presented stage shows and frequently hosted circus acts, magicians, and live music.

The Garden Theater was a vital part of the community until its closing in 1957. In the subsequent years, it survived several iterations – serving as an auto parts store, a law office – until it was abandoned and fell into disrepair.

In 2007 the theater was purchased, then by 2019 it was refurbished and resumed its rightful place as a lively gathering place in the heart of Louisa.