The drive-in theater in Bonham, Texas is a place I spent more than a few Friday nights in my teenage years. Yes, I was there with my boyfriend, Sam, and I would be less than honest if I said that we ever saw more than half of any movie. There was something so private – despite having vehicles parked all around you – sitting in the car on that dark field with a movie flickering on the screen off in the distance. A time to snuggle up and kiss a little while voices and music filled the car from the speaker hanging suspended from the window glass. Yes, I liked the drive-in – it was cozy and safe – and I especially liked the concession stand, which stands out in my memory as a swirl of color – bright orange in particular – and filled with the smell of freshly popped popcorn and dill pickles.
People I know who grew up in my hometown of 7,000 are almost always happy they were raised there. Bonham people are proud people and we seem to share a sense of connection simply by being from Fannin County, near enough to Dallas to enjoy the benefits, but far enough away not to have the liabilities. I still enjoy visiting my hometown, seeing old friends and returning to a few of my old haunts. I am sad to say the Bonham drive-in is long gone. Not so the memories, however.
One of these days I’d like to go back to a drive-in. Maybe my husband and I can snuggle up as we watch the movie. That would be fun. Still, there’s nothing like being sixteen and with your first love. Those are memories that hold a whole acre of ground in your heart. Still, Ray and I will do our best. I suspect we can have a little bit of fun, as well. After all, as my Daddy used to say, “I was sixteen about a minute and a half ago.” I guess I was, too. Or, at least that’s how it feels.
20 Minutes a Day 
Your article brought back a lot of memories for me too. Much like yours…16 and snuggled in my boyfriend’s arms. I’ve just happened to remain in his arms now for more than 50 years.
I love the sound of that, Barbara. That is a real romance!
“I was sixteen about a minute and a half ago.”
I love this. Your daddy sounds like a sweetheart.
Yes, he WAS a sweetheart! Thanks, Tess.
I remember drive-ins, too, Len, though I never went with my boyfriend since I never had a date while in high school. But there is something unique about them besides sitting in a car instead of a chair-like seat. There’s still a drive-in in nearby Gatesville; it’s called The Last Drive-in Picture Show. I haven’t been there but it’s tempting.
Jump in the car and head over to that “Last Drive-in Picture Show,” Sam. Who knows how long it’ll be there? Seize the moment, my dear! I believe you’ll enjoy it.
Next time you’re back in Texas, there is a working DI with multiple screens on I45 just before you get to Ennis. Very popular.
Thanks, Steve! Good to know about that drive-in. My husband and I will have to check that one out.
No, that wouldn’t have been us – no bumper sticker – but, yes, we were in CA at exactly the same time!