The American Gas Station

We bought this book as a Christmas present for my husband's 85-year-old uncle who used to own a Texaco station in Iowa. We thought he'd like it, but he LOVED it! He started skimming through it immediately, pointing at photos and talking with his grand-nephew all about the old days, old gas prices and pumps, and his own experiences at his station. It was the best present we ever bought him and certainly the best received present this Christmas, 2007.

Do you know when and where the first oil well was found? Did you know that in the early 1900's any shopkeeper with a curb and an idea could have his own commercial gas pump? Do you know what a lubester is? If these answers interest you, as well as the history of the rise of the gas station as we know it, check out The American Gas Station. Michael Witzel takes readers on a hundred fifty year tour of the gas and oil business, from the first gush in Titusville, PA, to the breakup of Standard Oil Company to the advent of self-service stations. Lots of interesting information and great photos - a treat for any automotive enthusiast. - Leila Dunbar, writer, Mobilia.com