Retro Brooklyn Drive-In Board

Brooklyn Drive-In was one of several iconic drive-in theaters that operated in Pretoria  during the mid-20th century, offering a nostalgic outdoor cinema experience where families and couples could watch movies from the comfort of their cars.
 
While detailed records of Brooklyn Drive-In specifically are scarce, it was part of a broader drive-in culture that thrived in South Africa from the 1950s through the 1980s.
 
Origins of Drive-Ins: The concept began in the U.S. in 1933 and spread globally, reaching South Africa in the post-war era when car ownership became more common. Drive-ins were popular because they allowed casual, family-friendly movie nights without formal dress codes.
Johannesburg Drive-In Scene: Brooklyn Drive-In was among notable venues like Top Star, Panorama, Speedy’s, and Veldskoen, which became social hubs for decades. These theaters typically showed double features and served snacks via roadhouse-style service.
Decline: By the late 1990s, most Johannesburg drive-ins, including Brooklyn, had closed due to urban development, rising land values, and competition from indoor cinemas and home entertainment. The nostalgia remains strong, and pop-up drive-in events occasionally revive the experience today.
 
 
These boards are made from soft steel and can be mounted on the wall, either by the folded strip at the back, or holes can be drilled at the allocated spaces indicated. This is ideal for outside areas, like an enclosed braai area etc. This is an awesome conversation starter!