NEWARK — Advertisements printed in The Star-Ledger date the grand opening of the Newark Drive-In to June 9, 1955. This photo, taken soon after the opening, shows the lighted sign for the facility at Route 1 and the Pulaski Skyway off Raymond Boulevard and Ferry Street.

According to itsonlyamovie.co.uk, the Newark theater, which could accommodate 2,400 cars, was the fifth largest drive-in in the United States. It was built and operated by the National Amusements Co., based in Dedham, Mass., which later became the multimedia entertainment company Viacom, according to Nat Bodian, writing in "Newark Memories."

The theater was a typical design of the era, with arc-shaped ramps facing the 120-foot-wide screen. Each ramp was slightly higher than the one in front if it, allowing for clear visibility.

Lasting longer than many other New Jersey drive-ins, the Newark theater closed in 1991 due to declining patronage. A truck depot now occupies the site.

If you would like to share a photo that provides a glimpse of history in your community, please call (973) 392-5950 or send an e-mail to essex@starledger.com.