By Debra M. WarrickDefying the odds, the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In is the last surviving drive-in theater in the Detroit area. Appropriately located in the city of Dearborn, Michigan, home of Henry Ford and the Ford automobile, the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In stands as an unsuspecting but suitable cultural icon uniquely American.
One of only ten remaining drive-in theaters in the state of Michigan, the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In, is an unusual and exciting success story. (www.geocities.com/driveintheater/guide.html.) With an architectural style driven by a combination of Art Moderne and Art Deco, the FordWyoming Drive-In is not only a unique example of architectural expression, but an appropriate one. Created in the image of transportation, the modernistic style (Art Moderne and Art Deco) is often specific to those public buildings associated with the automobile. The smooth surfaces, curved corners and horizontal emphasis speak to all things Americans envision about their automobiles. More specifically, theater screen #I and attached ticket booths are characterized by geometric angles, straight edges, shallow relief decorative elements and neon ornamentation. However, most impressive, is the screen's dramatic stepped facade emphasized by red and blue neon and porcelain enamel steel paneling.
Since its construction in I950, the theater has remained a gathering place, fueled by America's love affair of the automobile and drive for alternative family entertainment. The Ford Wyoming Drive-In stands as both a physical and aesthetic symbol of America car culture at its best. Initially considered "wholesome amusement," entire families were encouraged to come and enjoy not only the luxury of bringing along staying with their car throughout their entire experience, but also enjoyed the luxury of being welcomed no matter how old their children were or how well they behaved. Popular slogans during the drive-in's hay day, included: "Smoke when you Please," "Leave Your Girdle at Home," "Eat While You Look," and "Knit While You Sit." Long time theater owner, Charlie Shafer, purchased the Ford-Wyoming in 1981 and turned what historically was a single screen drive-in into a sprawling complex of nine screens. In an effort to compete with the new in-door multiplex theaters and cable T.V. beginning in 1981, four additional screens and an additional projection booth were added and the boundaries of the property expanded. With a capacity for over 3,000 cars, the complex is the single largest drive-in theater in the country.Faithful theater owner Charlie Shafer along with dedicated patrons, continue to believe in the theater's longevity. Fueled by perseverance and a continued tradition to bring popular, fun, family films, the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In continues to embody all those qualities popular during its hay day in the 1950's. It is hoped that will continue to be the case for years to come. With the help of a National Register of Historic Places nomination in progress, it will.
