The Michigan Drive-In Theatre Timeline is a year-by-year listings of drive-in openings, 
closings and events detailing the rise and fall of the 140-plus drive-in theatres 
that once operated in the State of Michigan. Also included are significant historical
events relating to Michigan, the automotive industry and some of Hollywoods offerings. 

1933
On June 6, 1933, Richard Hollingshead opens the world's 
very first "Drive-In Theatre" in Camden New Jersey. 

1938
Michigan's first drive-in opens in Detroit on May 26th, 1938. Originally it was 
called simply "Drive-In Theatre", later it was renamed the Eastside Drive-In to 
distinguish it from the other Motor City drive-in, the Westside.

Navin Field is renamed Briggs Stadium in 1938, it is later renamed Tiger Stadium.

1939
A couple of Hollywoods biggest flicks debut in 1939, the classic "Wizard of Oz" opens 
in August. And, "Gone With The Wind" is released in December.The epic Civil War drama
would eventually gross nearly $200,000,000 at the box office.

NEXT: 1940's