In today’s column, we are speaking to Cindy Beck Deppe. She is sharing memories of her father, William Beck, founder of Becky’s Drive-In, Berlinsville. After years of showing movies at many venues, Mr. Beck wanted to construct his own drive-in.

In 1939, Beck was told there was land available a short distance from his home; presently, the land is Breyfogle Memorial Park. He rented the grounds, and his stepfather, Earl Spadt, quickly erected poles for a screen. Soon the drive-in was ready for eager local moviegoers! A horn on the top of the screen provided sound for the patrons.

“One of the first films my father saw was a western at a theater in Slatington. So, he was partial to them,” Deppe said.

Westerns or “dusties” were very popular in the 1930s. Beck’s favorite cowboy was Gene Autry. Autry appeared on the screen more than any western hero. Old-timers may remember Autry’s theme song, “Back in the Saddle Again.”

The Route 45 Theater, now Route 145, was a movie favorite with the local public, but Mr. Beck wanted to expand and build a new theater on his own property. Once again, they found land on the new Route 145.

“The new piece of property was ideal for a drive-in,” Deppe said. “The land was large enough to accommodate hundreds of cars.”

Today, the drive-in can accommodate 450 cars. The price of the land was reasonable — 30 acres for $1,100. The family, friends and local contractors worked diligently to construct a solid screen, refreshment stand and ticket booth.

Their new screen was constructed with a stage to accommodate western bands. Some of the old bands that performed there were Earl Keller and the Melody Rangers, Willis Meyers, Dopey Duncan and the Broadway Buckaroos.

Soon, Beck realized he needed a better sound system. The addition of a new system was a big improvement. Now, there was a speaker in every automobile, and the moviegoer could relax and control the volume.

In 1948, a severe storm roared through the Berlinsville area and blew down the screen, which was quickly rebuilt. In the 1950s, activities were introduced to entertain the children before the start of the movie.

“In the 1950s and 1960s, we had our own ponies,” Deppe said. “We gave free rides. Now, on special occasions, Whispering Springs Horse Farm brings ponies to the theater and gives pony rides for $5. We also have our own trackless train and trackless fire engine to give rides to our younger patrons. There is also a moon bounce and a free playground for the children to enjoy before the movies.”

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In two weeks, we will remember Mr. Beck’s visit to our local schools.