Morelock's Drive-In Construction

In a newspaper from the Cottage Grove Sentinel published on December 1, 1949, readers were introduced to plans for what would become the Morelock's Drive-In Theatre. At the time, drive-in theaters were becoming increasingly popular across the United States, and the Morelock family believed Cottage Grove was ready for this new form of entertainment. According to the article, construction was expected to begin immediately on an area located just south of the city limits. The project was a joint enterprise of the Morelock family and was to be installed by Western Sound and Equipment Company of Portland. The plans described a venue that would accommodate up to 400 cars. The theatre would occupy a large plot of land measuring roughly 500 by 600 feet, with gravel parking areas and underground sound equipment. 

The article also highlighted multiple features designed to make the drive-in attractive to families. In addition to a full concession stand, the theatre would include a "play pen" where children could spend their time playing with supervision. These details suggest that the owner hoped to create a community gathering place rather than simply a movie theatre.
Although the newspaper projected a grand opening date of April 1, 1950, the theatre ultimately did not open until early May. The article also noted that the drive-in would likely operate only six to seven months each year, depending on weather conditions. Looking back, this announcement captures the excitement surrounding a new drive-in experience that would soon become a part of Cottage Grove's history.