Many have questioned, when the drive-in theatre on Plank Rd., came into being. Happily, I'm able to share much of its history, from beginning, to end.
Mr. William MacDonald and his wife Dolly, purchased the land on Plank Rd., in Sarnia Township, from Mr. Francis Shaw. On May 15, 1950, The Star Top Drive-In Theatre celebrated its Grand Opening. The MacDonald's operated the Star Top Drive-In, until 1967, when it was sold to Ucan Amusements Ltd., who renamed it "The Mustang Drive-In Theatre."
Premier Operating Corp. bought the Mustang Theatre in 1972, and owned it until 1986, when it was sold to Atkin Enterprises. By 1988, it had changed hands again, and the screen tower was taken down, signage removed, and the land listed, "For Sale." Now, in 2024, all that remains is the light pole at the back of the lot. It stands guard like a lonely sentinel, outstretched arms still holding those big lights. A silent reminder of good times, date nights, family, snuggled in the car, watching the big screen, together.
Though the theatre itself is gone, stories and memories abound, and I'd like to share memories from my perspective, as Manager of the Mustang Drive-In. (when owned by Premier Operating)
The season usually began mid March. Frequently, opening day required snowplows, to clear the entrance way, and parking ramps. Surprisingly, attendance was always good, in spite of having to keep the car running, through two movies, to stay warm. The theatre was open weekends, until June, when daily operation went into effect until September. Then, back to weekends, until the end of October, closing for winter (my time to oversee repairs, equipment service, thorough cleaning, etc.)
Every statutory holiday weekend, there was an all night show. They were always, sold out. Often, cars would line the shoulders of Plank Rd., in both directions, almost to Indian Rd. one way, and to Modeland Rd., the other. Sometimes, the Township Police came, driving up and down the road, with loud speakers, telling everyone to go home, the theatre was full. Most stayed, partying roadside, hoping to get in. Whenever a car drove out of the theatre, all you could hear was motors starting, and a line would move ahead, as a car was let in, to replace the one that left. That went on most of the night. As more cars left, the lines got shorter, until they were all in. It was a tiring night, for those of us working, but it was a lot of fun. Customers were good humoured, even those caught sneaking in, over the fence, or in the trunk.
Certainly, we dealt with folk who were drunk, argumentative, or outright nasty, but on the whole, it was the most enjoyable job I ever had. In part, that was due to the good, dependable people on staff. Most were teenagers from Brigden and Petrolia, who worked diligently, making my job much easier.
Often, I wonder what career paths those young folk chose, and where it led them. I do hope that when they, or a past customer, recalls their time at the drive-in, their memories will be as fond as my own.
Thanks to the Mustang Drive-In, I was transferred to Sarnia. I loved the work I did, and could have moved on, but Sarnia had cast its spell over us. This place, made us feel, "at home."