ASTORIA — On Feb. 11, the Lower Columbia Preservation Society will present a free lecture by E. Michael Friend, author of “Queen of the Coast,” a short published work exploring 100 years of the Liberty Theatre and its home of Astoria.

The lecture starts at 7 p.m. and will be held at Pacifick Distillers, housed in the historic Astoria Wharf and Warehouse.

Friend’s book focuses on the linked history between the city and the historic theater, which was built to share opulence as part of the city’s rebirth following the Great Astoria Fire of 1922.

Opening in 1925 to great acclaim, then eventually falling into neglect, the Liberty Theatre was one of the last vaudeville and movie palaces constructed in Oregon at a time when Astoria was seen by developers as a major West Coast port city that could rival New York City. What follows is a story of boom and bust.

Come early to secure a seat and enjoy a refreshment. Dining and beverage menus will be available. For more details, visit www.lcpsociety.org.