CenterBrook Drive-In: An experience from yesteryear

Located between Brooklyn and Centerton, Ind., CenterBrook Drive-In offers a step back in time, when cars and cinema went hand in hand. The drive-in continues to be a popular destination for county residents and visitors alike.

Minutes from both Mooreville and Martinsville, CenterBrook Drive-In is one of only 20 drive-in theaters still operating in Indiana, and one of only 300 operating in the United States. It's the last remaining drive-in in Morgan County.

CenterBrook Drive-In was named for the two nearest towns it sits between — Centerton, and Brooklyn. It was built in 1950 and operated by Clyde Weddle Sr., Clyde Weddle Jr. and Robert H. Brown and officially opened for business on May 2, 1950. It originally had a wooden screen that was 60 feet by 60 feet, with room for 500 cars. The theater has changed hands a few times over the years and is currently owned by Tyler Tharpe.

The original charm of the 1950s drive-in has been kept in many ways. It has a lawn instead of a parking lot covered in gravel or asphalt. It has a playground for kiddos to play on. And even though you can tune into the movie via your car radio, there are still working window speakers for you to enjoy.

While still maintaining the 1950 charm, they have incorporated a few updates to keep up with the times. You will no longer watch the movie on a wooden screen. And after many decades of reel-to-reel, they have since started using digital projection.

The concession stand still functions with candy, popcorn, soda and so much more to enjoy while watching your movie. You can also tailgate with a picnic if you desire.

Enjoy two movies for the price of one offered at all showings. Kids ages 6to 12 cost $5, adults are $10, and children under 5 are free for admission. The theater is open April through September and is a kid and pet friendly environment, so they whole family can enjoy a movie under the stars.

CenterBrook Drive-In is located at 6735 State Road 67 North.

(Prepared by the Morgan County Leadership Academy Class of 2022 on behalf of the Morgan County Bicentennial Committee)