Fueling Up Nostalgia: Rediscovering 1950s America Through Old Gas Stations in Color
Some interesting facts about American gas stations in the 1950s:
- Full-service gas stations were the norm: In the 1950s, most gas stations in America were full-service. That meant that attendants would pump gas, check oil and tire pressure, clean windows, and perform other small services for customers.
- Gas was cheap: In the 1950s, gas prices were much lower than they are today. In fact, the average price of gas in 1950 was around 27 cents per gallon, which is equivalent to around $2.70 per gallon today when adjusted for inflation.
- Unique architectural designs: Gas stations of the 1950s featured unique and eye-catching architectural designs. Many gas stations were built in a mid-century modern style, featuring bright colors, sweeping curves, and futuristic designs.
- Advertising was big: Gas stations of the 1950s were known for their colorful advertising. Gas pumps were often adorned with bright signs and logos, and gas stations themselves were often decorated with elaborate neon signs and other promotional materials.
- They offered more than just gas: Many gas stations in the 1950s offered more than just fuel. Some gas stations had full-service restaurants, others had auto repair shops, and still, others offered car wash services.
- They were a symbol of American freedom: Gas stations of the 1950s were seen as a symbol of American freedom and independence. The rise of car culture in the United States meant that people could travel freely and explore the country, and gas stations were an important part of that experience.
