For the first few decades of Indianapolis’ existence, regular theatrical entertainment wasn’t on the top of most Hoosiers’ priority lists.

The first bridge only lasted until 1866, when it was considered inadequate for the ever-increasing loads carried by the railroad. It was replaced by a heavier wooden structure, which reused the original piers.

The Garden Theater was located at 118 N. Washington Avenue and also went by the names the Downtown, the Star and Mead's Hall. The Garden began life as Mead's Hall in 1866 and hosted several well-known theater acts as well as many of America's finest orators. In 1876 the hall was the site of the local Centennial. In the late 1890s due to increasing competition, the popularity of Mead's Hall began to wane.