Since 1937 "Come as you are in the family car" and see the "Stars under the Stars" at the oldest Drive-In Theatre in Ohio!
2009 is our 73rd. season! The Lynn Auto Theatre, located at the junction of State Routes 21 and 250 just northwest of Strasburg, is the oldest Drive-In Theatre in Ohio and the second oldest continuously operating Drive-In Theatre in the world!
The construction of the Theatre started in the summer of 1935. In the spring of 1937 the Theatre opened as BOYER'S AUTO THEATRE. The Theatre was built by Andy Thompson and Roland Boyer. A Restaurant, Gas Station, Golf Driving Range and Arcade were also located on the Theatre grounds prior to the Theatre's opening. The complex was owned and operated by Roland Boyer during the 1930's and 1940's.
In the spring of 1948, Ward Franklin and his son-in-law Ray McCombs purchased the Theatre. Changing the name, in honor of McCombs daughter, Judy LYNN, to the Lynn Auto Theatre. In the mid 50's, the Restaurant, Gas Station, Arcade, and Golf Range were closed.
In the fall of 1957 Richard R. Reding and his son Richard W."Dick" and his wife Eunice "Abby" purchased the Theatre. In 1970 Rick joined his Mom and Dad in the family owned business. During the 70's and 80's Dick, Abby and Rick owned and operated twelve Theatre's in NE Ohio. The Drive-In Theatre's are now operated each season by Rick's two sons Rich and Jamie, making it a four generation business!
Many changes and upgrades have been made to the Theatre over the last 71 seasons. In 1967 a second screen was added along with the traditional Speaker Post Sound System to make the Theatre a Twin Drive-In. Most resent in 1996, new Stereo Audio Soundheads, two Digital Dolby FM Stereo Transmitters and Audio Boards were installed in both Theatres allowing patrons to enjoy First Run Movies, in HD Stereo, from their vehicles radio. In 2001 both Theatre's Projection Systems were overhauled and refurbished. For the 2002 season both screen towers were painted and new counters were installed in the Concession Stand and in 2005 a "Classic Mammoth Retro Neon Marquee" was installed!