The Last Picture Show: Farewell To Iowa'S Iconic Adult Cinema

Remembering Cinema 16: A Unique Piece of Waterloo's History

For many in Waterloo, Cinema 16 was more than a theater showing adult films; it was a community fixture. First opening its doors in 1970, it provided a space for those seeking out an alternative night out, complete with plush seating and an intimate atmosphere. Over the years, it stood as a testament to an era when adult cinemas were more common, before the internet revolutionized private viewing.

Earl Baugh, who took over ownership in the late 1990s, had a straightforward approach: he wanted to offer a safe and welcoming place for all, from the swinger community to lonely individuals seeking connection. "The place was a safe space for those in the swinger community, the gay community, and those who were lonely," Baugh reflected, considering the theater a modern-day "Cheers" for its eclectic clientele.

The Final Curtain: Changing Times and Closing Doors

Despite its popularity, Cinema 16 couldn't escape the fate of many adult theaters. In the early 2000s, the digital age and stricter local zoning laws began to signal its end. Baugh's foresight and rapport with the city allowed it to operate longer than most, but after 50 years, the theater shuttered its doors shortly after being sold on contract in 2022.

“Porn will always make money and the world needs it," Baugh said. "Everyone needs love.”

While the theater side of the business officially closed, the building briefly operated as an adult gift shop, Romeo and Juliet, before being boarded up in 2025. Even in retirement, Baugh looks back fondly on his unconventional enterprise, proud of the community it fostered and the freedoms it supported.

A Legacy of Controversy and Community

Throughout its decades-long history, Cinema 16 faced its share of controversies, from local government battles to tragic events. These included the 1997 murder of manager Larry Casto and the death of Ottumwa's Cinema X owner, Kenny McDaniel, in 2012. Yet, it persevered as a space where people could come together, challenge societal norms, and enjoy cinematic experiences in a communal setting.

Baugh's tenure and the eventual closure of Cinema 16 highlight the shifting landscape of adult entertainment and personal freedoms. The battles over adult cinemas echo current debates over censorship, privacy, and the right to freely access adult content. As the curtain falls on Iowa's last adult theater, its story remains a vital reminder of the ongoing conversation around personal liberties and societal values.