Got an old brain? I need to pick it!!!!

[31 Model A]

Need to remember back, as far back as the 30s, whether you lived it, like I did , or from stories from your dad, granddad, etc. What was on the counter at the filling stations? I remember a cash register, a telephone, mini-tire ashtray, some candy maybe, logo matches...........do you remember anything that has stuck in your memory? Remember, before there was also a credit card slider sitting there too!!!!!

Cheers..........

[Jim Brierley]

A rack with 1 quart oil bottles was there or more likely out on the island. I worked for a Chevron station, we pushed Chevron or Standard oils but kept others under the counter. We also offered credit to some regular customers they would settle with us around the first of the month when they would stop by, I don't think any statements were mailed?

[gridleak]

a big tapered bearing and race that everybody spun while waiting

[Bruce Lancaster]

A big jar of Tom's Peanutbutter logs. They were only a penny, when a full-sized candy bar was 5 or even 10 cents.
If we were far enough south and out in the boondocks, it might be joined by a big jar of pickled pig's feet or pickled hardboiled eggs in beet juice...
Outside, a drink machine with a vertical row of bottles that you pulled straight out after dropping the nickel, OR a horizontal cabinet one with the drinks arranged in a maze of slots. If you wanted the Nehi grape in the far corner, you had to slide every blasted bottle in the machine around until you solved the puzzle ("Hurry up! We still need to go another 200 miles!!") and got your drink over to the coin-op release in the near corner.

[Bruce Lancaster]

Also, an old distributor cap with terminals drilled down so it could hold the pencils and pens needed.

[cp5491r]

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Lots of pics on internet if you look at 1930's parts stores. That might give some ideas. I wasn't around then but I bet you'd find tobacco tins and rolling papers, a hand-cranked pencil sharpener, and tire gauges for sale.

[katy]

What was on the counter at the filling stations?

A metal stand w/a whole bunch of parts catalogues in it, the stand held them at an angle.
There was also a double ended box wrench, 1/2 X 9/16, that the ends hadn't been broached out, just had round holes in it. That was the one they lent out when someone wanted to borrow a 1/2 or 9/16 wrench. It always came back in.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Jim Brierley

A rack with 1 quart oil bottles was there or more likely out on the island. I worked for a Chevron station, we pushed Chevron or Standard oils but kept others under the counter. We also offered credit to some regular customers they would settle with us around the first of the month when they would stop by, I don't think any statements were mailed?

Got the rack, bottles and the cans Jim. I do remember the credit book that was kept behind the counter though.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by gridleak

a big tapered bearing and race that everybody spun while waiting

Now that is something I don't or can't remember. Can you elaborate a bit more?

[Willie Krash]

About 40 years Back a Col. Bird drives into the local Chevron. Kid fills the tank. Col. Bird uses a credit card. Kid goes to the office to call it in....back then you called it in if it was over a certain amount.

Chevron rep in the office had the phone tied up as the owner waited.
Kid go back tells Col Bird he is trying, the Bird gets mad, yells at kid.
Kid calls the Col Bird an asshole. Bird demands to see the owner.
The Bird cries your pump jockey called me an asshole.

Wait for it, the owner Claude wright, says....they only get to do that once a year and they don't waste it.....

That's how it's done.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Bruce Lancaster

A big jar of Tom's Peanutbutter logs. They were only a penny, when a full-sized candy bar was 5 or even 10 cents.
If we were far enough south and out in the boondocks, it might be joined by a big jar of pickled pig's feet or pickled hardboiled eggs in beet juice...
Outside, a drink machine with a vertical row of bottles that you pulled straight out after dropping the nickel, OR a horizontal cabinet one with the drinks arranged in a maze of slots. If you wanted the Nehi grape in the far corner, you had to slide every blasted bottle in the machine around until you solved the puzzle ("Hurry up! We still need to go another 200 miles!!") and got your drink over to the coin-op release in the near corner.

I do have the idea of a Planters jar on the counter and I am considering it. Soda machine I have but not the slider type. Very expensive............for my pocket book but I remember getting Yoo-Hoos from one up at Darr's Garage.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Bruce Lancaster

Also, an old distributor cap with terminals drilled down so it could hold the pencils and pens needed.

That's an idea...thanks. I do remember them also.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by cp5491r

Lots of pics on internet if you look at 1930's parts stores. That might give some ideas. I wasn't around then but I bet you'd find tobacco tins and rolling papers, a hand-cranked pencil sharpener, and tire gauges for sale.

Been looking at many photos and did get some ideas from them.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by 1930 coupe

Free road maps, light bulbs, fuses, free drinking glasses with a fill up. A bell that rang when a car pulled in. Most of the time you did not get out of your car. They washed your windshield, checked your oil and tires while the gas was going in. Had gas price wars going most of the time. Free ice scrapers with there name on it.

Got the bell, roadmaps, wanted to get the matchbook advert giveaways but I'd have to order a 1000 and I don't think I'll have that many customers, love to have a box of them on the counter though.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by katy

A metal stand w/a whole bunch of parts catalogues in it, the stand held them at an angle.
There was also a double ended box wrench, 1/2 X 9/16, that the ends hadn't been broached out, just had round holes in it. That was the one they lent out when someone wanted to borrow a 1/2 or 9/16 wrench. It always came back in.

That is something I don't remember or ever seeing. I remember Darr's Garage was a Sinclair station and a Chevy dealership, had room for one car and as the cars got bigger, he had to display a Nova, Corvette or a Convair during the 50s/60s.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by willie krash

about 40 years back a col. Bird drives into the local chevron. Kid fills the tank. Col. Bird uses a credit card. Kid goes to the office to call it in....back then you called it in if it was over a certain amount.

chevron rep in the office had the phone tied up as the owner waited.
Kid go back tells col bird he is trying, the bird gets mad, yells at kid.
Kid calls the col bird an asshole. Bird demands to see the owner.
The bird cries your pump jockey called me an asshole.

Wait for it, the owner claude wright, says....they only get to do that once a year and they don't waste it.....

That's how it's done.

LOL....good story

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Chiefs' pop box wuz BIG, bottles floated in ICE & WATER. Ice delivered by Gabe Caldwell, in a '37 Chev P.U, with 1/3 of the rear fenders rotted off! He wore a large leather VEST, to protect himself from the BIG blocks of ice, swung over his shoulder, with HUGE ice tongs ! LATER, he would bring COAL, for the POT BELLY, in the SAME truck !
IF I culd tipe well, I culd whip you out 50 or 60 pages of stuff I remember about our Conoco Fillin' Station, even about GAS STAMPS & how Chief converted the pot belly, to an OIL BURNER!
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

At my age, my mind has to work 24/7 to get just one idea, hence why I came here for help. Keep ideas coming please regardless how many stars this thread is given.

Calendar!!!!!!!!!! I don't have a calendar, just got a 1931 Rexall weather calendar, complete year, off of eBay and...............four 1937 Grit newspapers. Could be I sold them but they are coming from Florida.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Chiefs' pop box wuz BIG, bottles floated in ICE & WATER. Ice delivered by Gabe Caldwell, in a '37 Chev P.U, with 1/3 of the rear fenders rotted off! He wore a large leather VEST, to protect himself from the BIG blocks of ice, swung over his shoulder, with HUGE ice tongs ! LATER, he would bring COAL, for the POT BELLY, in the SAME truck !
IF I culd tipe well, I culd whip you out 50 or 60 pages of stuff I remember about our Conoco Fillin' Station, even about GAS STAMPS & how Chief converted the pot belly, to an OIL BURNER!
Bill W.

I too remember the ice blocks, 10 cents a block at the ice house. Put ten cents in and out came a block of ice. I remember putting my head inside the icebox on hot days too. I do have the gas stamps though Bill. You rest up now, cum'on back when ever yur a bit fit to typ sum more.

Don't have room for a pot belly, if I did, I'd have one for sure..............

[ericr]

slot machines while they were legal, at least in stores that were not solely gas stations but also sold groceries, did repair work, etc. also, in season, fireworks.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ericr

slot machines while they were legal, at least in stores that were not solely gas stations but also sold groceries, did repair work, etc. also, in season, fireworks.

Very much so and I have been thinking about a slot machine, it would go perfect and I'm still considering it but, three things are holding me back for a slot machine, first two reasons are the same for a cash register, a good one cost big bucks and, most people don't want to ship them, too heavy and bulky so in most cases they are for local pickup only....bummer!!!!
The third reason, I can't go too far into my vault because of repairs to Sarah over the winter and our Larry needs to put the bacon on the table.

The idea though will be there always........

[Brentwood Bob]

On the floor an Mt wooden box for the empties, and deposit returns we would use to get a cold nehi and a 5cent package of planters to put in the cream soda, or rc cola.
always the tom's and some gave green stamps.
Bob

[Cool Hand Lurker]

Gum ball machine !

[ronn]

ahhhhhhhhh, a nice chianti.......................... would go well with that brain!

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Brentwood Bob

On the floor an Mt wooden box for the empties, and deposit returns we would use to get a cold nehi and a 5cent package of planters to put in the cream soda, or rc cola.
always the tom's and some gave green stamps.
Bob

Got the cases and the empties covered Bob. I have Coke, Root Beer and soon, bottled Squirt in the cooler. The cooler also has beer in it too, Schlitz!!!! but that between you and me ..........

[31 Model A]

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Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

Gum ball machine !

Got that covered too but had to take out the gumballs, too hot and replaced them with nuts. Can't have much in the way of candy because of the heat.

[31 Model A]

I've got, Animal Crackers, potato chips, Moon Pies, Cracker Jacks also

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ronn

ahhhhhhhhh, a nice chianti.......................... would go well with that brain!

Plenty in my modern frig...............

[30ccpickup]

No longer politically correct, but how about a spittoon.

[31 Model A]

Here is the space in question,



The calendar I just acquired will hang from on the side of the taller cabinet.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by 30ccpickup

No longer politically correct, but how about a spittoon.

I remember seeing the old gents who chawed back then just step outside and let it go. Being a garage and all, outside was sufficient, I guess.

[C26Pinelake]

my 1923 Cardway came with a spittoon ! Wayne

[Big hammer]

Ding Ding cars driving over a hose and bell would ring

[Pete]

Your wall phone is too modern. It should have a crank on the side.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Big hammer

Ding Ding cars driving over a hose and bell would ring

Got that too...bell is inside the house as an additional security.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Pete

Your wall phone is too modern. It should have a crank on the side.

That is a Crosley, modern touch tone. It will be replaced with a dial wall phone model 653A but not right away, they cost, especially one that has been reconditioned. The Western Electric on the cabinet is a 202 with an E series handset and it has been reconditioned and....it works on todays lines going out or coming in calls. They were made from 30-37 and with the E series handset, from 30-34. It was toss up between a candle stick dial 1927-1930 or that one, I went with that one but it does have the early rural dial face on it.

BTW, that tire ashtray was a souvenir from Firestone at the 1934 Century of Progress Expo in Chicago. Fantastic find at a great price too.

[Big hammer]

Desk top note pad with calendar for oil change,tire rotation,etc and of course sum pictures of young ladies ( I am a dirty old minded man ). :-)

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Big hammer

Desk top note pad with calendar for oil change,tire rotation,etc and of course sum pictures of young ladies ( I am a dirty old minded man ). :-)

I remember those calendars and I didn't even have to go to the drugstore to look at Nat Geo either. Could have got one, a 1932 but it was too badly beat up, the calendar, not the gal!!!

[monto]

All paperwork was hand written. There was a small book of 50 carbon duplicate sales slips for gas, oil, etc., and a base mounted vertical ice pick type of spike to skewer the carbon copies on. For repairs and "big money" items, there was a book of carbon duplicate money receipts. My guess is that 90% of the transactions were cash...........nickel Coke machine - returnable glass bottles wooden case of 24 = $1.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by monto

All paperwork was hand written. There was a small book of 50 carbon duplicate sales slips for gas, oil, etc., and a base mounted vertical ice pick type of spike to skewer the carbon copies on. For repairs and "big money" items, there was a book of carbon duplicate money receipts. My guess is that 90% of the transactions were cash...........nickel Coke machine - returnable glass bottles wooden case of 24 = $1.

There was one of those ice pick type receipt holders on eBay made by the National Register Company, thought about that, I might see if it's still available. Receipt book, good idea.

Cheers!!!!

[old car guy]

Don't forget the tire patches and the metal tins with fuses for sale along with a toms jar with crackers m@ms and always some peanuts and on the floor was the cases of oil in the glass jars

[PC/SR]

While not really items on display, a slice of life at the time. I remember that Wayne, the old timer, had a bottle of Old Crow hidden behind one of the gallon oil cans. Also the broom and mop 'cause it was my job on the 4-midnight shift to clean the restrooms. My favorite memory was a "working girl" coming in one night looking for Paulie to barter for a tank of gas. A** for gas it was called then. Those were real "service" stations. She had a Hudson. I did like that car.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by old car guy

Don't forget the tire patches and the metal tins with fuses for sale along with a toms jar with crackers m@ms and always some peanuts and on the floor was the cases of oil in the glass jars

It's toss up between Planters or Tom's. Tom's jars are far more hard to date and most are post 40s.

I might have a lead on a cash register, I'll know in a few days.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by PC/SR

While not really items on display, a slice of life at the time. I remember that Wayne, the old timer, had a bottle of Old Crow hidden behind one of the gallon oil cans. Also the broom and mop 'cause it was my job on the 4-midnight shift to clean the restrooms. My favorite memory was a "working girl" coming in one night looking for Paulie to barter for a tank of gas. A** for gas it was called then. Those were real "service" stations. She had a Hudson. I did like that car.

AH Yes!!!! Late night cruisin could make a gal get low on gas when business was slow.

My first taste of Whisky was Old Grandad but Old Crow was in there a few time after also. I think back then, Old Crow or Old Grandad was to whisky what Mogan David and Boones Farm was to wine.

BTW, I have the broom and mop covered.

[art ebeling]

How about one of these on the way out?

[31 Model A]

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Originally Posted by art ebeling

How about one of these on the way out?

Had one on the door to an old retro country store I had but for this garage, I don't have a screen door or able to have one.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by 1930 coupe

Is this what you are referring to, I made the batteries from 2 inch PVC pipe and put D cell batteries inside them, had to add a condenser to the bell to make it work on a modern line but every thing else is original parts and it rings and you can talk on it. I use mine daily. The other phones work and would also look good in a old station.
Some old fans would also look good. This fan is 100 years old.
You will also need some kind of old heater.

I do have a ceiling fan, a 1929 Emerson Electric oscillating fan and a Western Electric 202/w E1 handset. I will replace the Crosely with a 653 at a later date.

[art ebeling]

Not for he counter, but did you ever pull one of these? I painted this paperboy cart in chicle with straw wheels. Now it's a coffee table.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by art ebeling

Not for he counter, but did you ever pull one of these? I painted this paperboy cart in chicle with straw wheels. Now it's a coffee table.

Never did pull one but I remember them well and the boys who pulled them through the streets of St Louis late evenings and calling out, "Morning Globe paper". I've come across a few of those out and about and the cheapest one I found was around $400.

Nice nostalgic idea for a coffee table.......

[Cool Hand Lurker]

Where's your Ford sign? Gotta have one!


Oh yeah, your desk is too plastic.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

Where's your Ford sign? Gotta have one!


Oh yeah, your desk is too plastic.

I know and I admit, got to have some things made in China!!!!!!!!

I like that sign, want to sell it?

Mine is not.............but it's big!!! Old photo..............

[1930artdeco]

You have a drive in movie speaker on the wall that I believe is post war. That being said, how about using two of them and piping in some period music? Or, get a table top radio that is playing music?

Mike

[ped58]

I can remember "Service Station Awards" they were made of a dark wood and a brass plate with the owners name and how many years he has been with the company. I know Shell gave them out about every 5 years.

[ericr]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Very much so and I have been thinking about a slot machine, it would go perfect and I'm still considering it but, three things are holding me back for a slot machine, first two reasons are the same for a cash register, a good one cost big bucks and, most people don't want to ship them, too heavy and bulky so in most cases they are for local pickup only....bummer!!!!
The third reason, I can't go too far into my vault because of repairs to Sarah over the winter and our Larry needs to put the bacon on the table.

The idea though will be there always........

LOL if you ever pursue it, do some research, at one point in history they started making the slots with a lot of pot metal in them and you might be buying a headache.

[ericr]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Got the cases and the empties covered Bob. I have Coke, Root Beer and soon, bottled Squirt in the cooler. The cooler also has beer in it too, Schlitz!!!! but that between you and me ..........

quite a beautiful display that brings back a lot of good memories.

[Mitch//pa]

sorry guys i dont remember any of that stuff,,, and its not because of memory loss either

[FL&WVMIKE]

Later, this summer, I will be selling my pretty nice collection of, over the counter, auto products. Back when it was cheap, I used to buy every product, that had an old car picture on it. It makes me sick to think of the things that I left behind.
I will be selling these, mostly on the AACA Forums, as they aren't FORD, for the most part.
MIKE (mikeburch)

[katy]

Catalogue stand looked something like this only it was grey about 12"-15" wide, and full. There was catalogues for tires, batteries, ignition parts, spark plugs steering components and lots of other stuff.

[Not George]

Originally Posted by 1930 coupe

Free road maps, light bulbs, fuses, free drinking glasses with a fill up. A bell that rang when a car pulled in. Most of the time you did not get out of your car. They washed your windshield, checked your oil and tires while the gas was going in. Had gas price wars going most of the time. Free ice scrapers with there name on it.

I call them service stations.
There is one four blocks from my house complete with all of the services you mentioned.
Of course the gasoline is a little pricey.

[gaylord degroot]

Loved the vertical pop machines outside along the rest room row.
A church key opener and a straw gave an immediate discount.
We'd put in a dollars worth of gas and drive up and down main street.
Innocent fun........good old days!

[Rowdy]

Although it would be more at home in a 1930's parts store, I stumbled on to this in one of my parts purchases 3 years ago.
http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showth...ht=weatherhead

Rod

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Rowdy

Although it would be more at home in a 1930's parts store, I stumbled on to this in one of my parts purchases 3 years ago.
http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showth...ht=weatherhead

Rod

Here the lowdown on Weatherhead, nice garage memorabilia.



http://www.barrett-jackson.com/Archi...GoodAnd-179184

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by FL&WVMIKE

Later, this summer, I will be selling my pretty nice collection of, over the counter, auto products. Back when it was cheap, I used to buy every product, that had an old car picture on it. It makes me sick to think of the things that I left behind.
I will be selling these, mostly on the AACA Forums, as they aren't FORD, for the most part.
MIKE (mikeburch)

I'll be shopping..............

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by katy

Catalogue stand looked something like this only it was grey about 12"-15" wide, and full. There was catalogues for tires, batteries, ignition parts, spark plugs steering components and lots of other stuff.

I remember those, used them for awhile but I think they are way post-30s.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Mitch//pa

sorry guys i dont remember any of that stuff,,, and its not because of memory loss either

Which says, you can't remember having a memory!!!!

[Rowdy]

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Thanks. For the time being it is stored inside with a bunch of parts. There is not currently enough room in the shop for it to be displayed. I barely have room for the KRW tool cabinet and the Firestone receipt desk. Rod

[Rowdy]

Mitch, I don't remember any of it either. Likely because I was not born until 1970. Rod

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Rowdy

Mitch, I don't remember any of it either. Likely because I was not born until 1970. Rod

My memory of long long ago is spot on but ask about yesterday or even last week and I'll be 96.6% with no idea and actually, I prefer it that way for so many reasons. I'll bet you a pound to a penny, many here feel the same way.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by monto

and a base mounted vertical ice pick type of spike to skewer the carbon copies on. .

Found one and have acquired it. Still looking for a proper receipt book.

[Cool Hand Lurker]

You should probably look for some old Copenhagen too.

[Glen in Hillman MI]

I was raised in a small resort town on Lake Michigan. In the late 40's and through the 50's in the Sinclair gas station, was a key that had been cut in half and each piece was welded to the end of a long welding rod. when someone would inquire about it, the owner took great pride in telling them that you stick it up an elephant's --- to unlock it's trunk.
Glen

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by glen in hillman mi

i was raised in a small resort town on lake michigan. In the late 40's and through the 50's in the sinclair gas station, was a key that had been cut in half and each piece was welded to the end of a long welding rod. When someone would inquire about it, the owner took great pride in telling them that you stick it up an elephant's --- to unlock it's trunk.
Glen

lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :d

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

You should probably look for some old Copenhagen too.

Cope or Skoal, both was around big time in 1934

[Slowplane]

An old cut down 5" or 6" piston, used as an ashtray....

[Cool Hand Lurker]

Wrigley's Spearmint Gum.... 5 cents a pak way into the '70s !

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

Wrigley's Spearmint Gum.... 5 cents a pak way into the '70s !

I can go back to the 1920s on gum......

http://www.oldtimecandy.com/candy-by...?decade=29&p=1

or the 1920s and 30s on Lifesavers.

http://www.oldtimecandy.com/walk-the...le/life-savers

[Cracker39]

We used to change fan belts and wiper blades right at the gas pump and, if you had 10 minutes, we'd move your car aside, change the upper or lower radiator hoses, and fill the radiator back up with fresh anti-freeze or water. We were highly skilled at draining a hot radiator without getting burned.

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by Cracker39

We used to change fan belts and wiper blades right at the gas pump and, if you had 10 minutes, we'd move your car aside, change the upper or lower radiator hoses, and fill the radiator back up with fresh anti-freeze or water. We were highly skilled at draining a hot radiator without getting burned.

At Chiefs' Conoco station, he made BIG bucks, doin' REPAIRS ! Gas profit, was "maybe" 2 cents a gallon. Momma I were "CHEEP HELP" & ran the pumps. Uncle Mutt would help us on busy Saturdays. Chief was the ONLY one in town that fixed BIG TRUCK tires $$$$$$$$'s & the only one with a FAST BATTERY CHARGER! Yes, I'm older than DIRT.
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Yes, I'm older than DIRT.
Bill W.

Bill, in case you haven't caught on, this thread was started with you in mind!!!!!!

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Bill, in case you haven't caught on, this thread was started with you in mind!!!!!!

31, YOU MADE MY DAY, along with the fact thet I DIDN'T wake up DAID!!
Bill W.

[mshmodela]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Got the cases and the empties covered Bob. I have Coke, Root Beer and soon, bottled Squirt in the cooler. The cooler also has beer in it too, Schlitz!!!! but that between you and me ..........

Funny pop/soda was so much better from the little glass bottles from the "pull" machines...

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by mshmodela

Funny pop/soda was so much better from the little glass bottles from the "pull" machines...

You betcha!!!!!!!!!!!!! and it still is. Can't wait to get my Squirt. It's a three hour drive one way to get it where it's sold.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by bill williamson

31, you made my day, along with the fact thet i didn't wake up daid!!
bill w.

[Cool Hand Lurker]

This has been a fun thread. It really kicks out some old, old memories. THANKS !

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

This has been a fun thread. It really kicks out some old, old memories. THANKS !

I agree and like Model As, I hope it's resurrected now and then. Memory comes and goes as we have seen with Bill's contributions!!!!!

[31 Model A]

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Calendar arrived today, first thing I did was turn the pages over to Sarah's birth month before I hung it. Other items haven't arrived yet.

[SeaSlugs]

Im only about a 1/3 of some of your ages but i remember there were 2 stores near us that were like a 5 and dime. I mostly remember penny candy they had (swedish fish, small tootsie rolls, ju ju bees, gummy coins, sixlets, etc) stores had everything from arts and craft supplies, plumbing parts, electrical stuff, plastic models, hotwheels, etc.

My favorite candy is still the candy cigarettes (target, round up, lucky strike, etc) luckily i can still find them for about a quarter a pack...still feel weird waiting in line to pay while everyone else is buying real cigs and scratchoffs and here i stand with like 10 packs of candy cigs haha.

And yes soda (yes its soda around here not "pop" or "coke") still does taste better from glass bottles.

[CarlG]

Originally Posted by SeaSlugs

...And yes soda (yes its soda around here not "pop" or "coke") still does taste better from glass bottles.

Years ago I was helping a guy load up his household goods in a move. When we took a break, he asked the group; "Can I get you a Cok'cola?" Proceeded over to the frig and continued "we have Orange, Dr.Pepper & 7up"

[31 Model A]

Picking up my Squirt this Saturday. I found a place a lot closer and more direct that gets a case every Friday. If you're in the area, stop in for a Squirt...IN THE BOTTLE while you read a Grit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ian Simpson]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Plenty in my modern frig...............

Red wine in the fridge? Really......

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by ian Simpson

Red wine in the fridge? Really......

Well, Ian, I got "BAREFOOT WINERY"---Sweet, White, MOSCATO I'm a little worried about thet "BAREFOOT" thing??????
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ian Simpson

Red wine in the fridge? Really......

My modern frig is set on room temperature!!!!!

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Well, Ian, I got "BAREFOOT WINERY"---Sweet, White, MOSCATO I'm a little worried about thet "BAREFOOT" thing??????
Bill W.

See!!! I knew you were my long lost dad, I must have got my like for Moscato from your genes. Mitch drinks Mogan David so think twice about claiming him as a yougin of yurs!!!!! He just doesn't have the class like you and I have, pa!!!

[Tacoma Bob]

Not sure when they came out but I sure remember the "pine" tree air fresheners and key chains on cards where my Dad traded in the 50s and early 60s. Always a few Gates fan belts and radiator hoses in popular sizes.

[Mitch//pa]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

See!!! I knew you were my long lost dad, I must have got my like for Moscato from your genes. Mitch drinks Mogan David so think twice about claiming him as a yougin of yurs!!!!! He just doesn't have the class like you and I have, pa!!!

Yooo backup
I drink manischevitz
And he is my dad I can prove it

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Mitch//pa

Yooo backup
I drink manischevitz
And he is my dad I can prove it

Hey!! Watch it, I'll start telling family secrets like how I don't charge Pa for his daily Grit newspaper but you charge him to read it to him!!!!!

[Bruce Adams]

The desk telephone, Western Electric 202 set was developed in 1920 and widely available in the 1930's, known as an "H Set" to Telco people and The FDR Phone to many. The wall set represented with the flip in the coin return was a late 1960s development.
In reference to the ubiquitous slide credit card machine, BANK AMERICARD was the first of the bank cards, available in 1958. Credit cards were unheard of at the Long Island gas station I worked in during the late 1950's and early 1960's. The $ 0.40 oil bottles were refilled nightly from bulk oil containers.

[CarlG]

My earliest recollection of a credit card was a Texaco card that my Dad used. It was a paper card, and all the information had to be transferred to the paper credit slip by hand.

That was the same era (early '50s) that the grocery store had individual charge books for each of it's customers.

[Bruce Lancaster]

"I sure remember the "pine" tree air fresheners and key chains on cards..."
Stuff on cards! I remember combs, Hav-a-hank handkerchiefs,, chap sticks in rows, and the air fresheners...but there were more cards up there in the gas staions that were flogging sales of stuff on the wall to supplement gas profits. What else do you remember on the wall on cards?

[ericr]

Originally Posted by Bruce Adams

The desk telephone, Western Electric 202 set was developed in 1920 and widely available in the 1930's, known as an "H Set" to Telco people and The FDR Phone to many. The wall set represented with the flip in the coin return was a late 1960s development.
In reference to the ubiquitous slide credit card machine, BANK AMERICARD was the first of the bank cards, available in 1958. Credit cards were unheard of at the Long Island gas station I worked in during the late 1950's and early 1960's. The $ 0.40 oil bottles were refilled nightly from bulk oil containers.

-and did you know that the flip coin return was to foil thieves, who would stuff paper up the previous design open return slot and come back later for their loot.

and you confirmed something I kinda suspected: that the candlestick phone was more a device of the 'teens than the twenties.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ericr

-and did you know that the flip coin return was to foil thieves, who would stuff paper up the previous design open return slot and come back later for their loot.

and you confirmed something I kinda suspected: that the candlestick phone was more a device of the 'teens than the twenties.

Here's a good site for info on early phones, covers them all and the years.

http://www.telephonearchive.com/phones/

[Charles Coe]

In the 1950s in rural Alabama, the small store near my grandmother's house still had a wooden wall phone with a crank on the side. Almost no one had a phone in their house.

[ursus]

One thing that I recall is pretty much gone these days and that is a sense of pride in running a service station. My father started in sales for the former Texas Company (now called Texaco) at a time when most stations were leased franchise operations. The operators were expected to wear a reasonably clean uniform with a cap and black bow tie and to treat the public with courtesy. This was just after WWII and many of the station operators were veterans that ran their places with the efficiency and precision of a military base. By the time he retired in 1990, my father had said they were lucky to hire station attendants that "could walk and chew gum at the same time".

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Charles Coe

In the 1950s in rural Alabama, the small store near my grandmother's house still had a wooden wall phone with a crank on the side. Almost no one had a phone in their house.

Sorta the same with the old see-thru gravity pumps, many rural areas didn't have electricity to run the pumps that replaced them so they were used way into the late 40s.

[BlueSunoco]

31 Model A------ neat set up perfect place to park your Coupe!!

I saw a really nice Sunoco oil bottle rack w/ bottles sell at auction a few years ago. It was illuminated looked pretty cool. Seller said it dated from the early 1930's. Being a Sunoco nut I sure wanted to buy it, but it sold at just under three thousand bucks if I recall was out of my budget for that sort of thing at that time

[31 Model A]

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Originally Posted by BlueSunoco

31 Model A------ neat set up perfect place to park your Coupe!!

I saw a really nice Sunoco oil bottle rack w/ bottles sell at auction a few years ago. It was illuminated looked pretty cool. Seller said it dated from the early 1930's. Being a Sunoco nut I sure wanted to buy it, but it sold at just under three thousand bucks if I recall was out of my budget for that sort of thing at that time

Yes, certain things go for big bucks if they are associated with a certain oil company....you can find wire racks with authentic bottles with spouts between $400-$600 bucks that are not associated with a certain oil company. I've come across many in antique shops.

[BlueSunoco]

I hear ya..... this one was a blue and yellow outfit that stood alone, about three feet high, big enough to hold around 24 glass oil bottles. It was perfectly restored with Sunoco oil bottles in the stand. The sides had little punched out holes in the outlines of 'Blue Sunoco' so the light bulbs inside would shine out if that makes any sense.

Probably what it was worth as you say they want $600 for the small wire carriers w/ bottles.

Oh well, next time

[31 Model A]

How much did you pay the last time you got 13 gals of gas and one quart of oil?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Elkh...item1a02233a84

[BlueSunoco]

C.E. couldn't afford the Hi-Test!!

[Gold Digger]

Even in the mid-60's we had a see through gravity pump at a one horse garage that I worked at as a teenager. One of my many jobs there was to keep it pumped full during the day so the gas would expand and the excess would run over the over flow pipe and return back in the under ground tank. The old man that ran the place said that was the only profit he made on gas. I done all of the oil changes and grease jobs and helped on the overhauls and clutch jobs. The old man was an expert mechanic but rather talk than work. He also bootlegged wild cat whisky out of the parts room.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Gold Digger

Even in the mid-60's we had a see through gravity pump at a one horse garage that I worked at as a teenager. One of my many jobs there was to keep it pumped full during the day so the gas would expand and the excess would run over the over flow pipe and return back in the under ground tank. The old man that ran the place said that was the only profit he made on gas. I done all of the oil changes and grease jobs and helped on the overhauls and clutch jobs. The old man was an expert mechanic but rather talk than work. He also bootlegged wild cat whisky out of the parts room.

LOL!!!!! Great story, great memory to have........

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

LOL!!!!! Great story, great memory to have........

We got our first electric pump for the Regular, in 1944, got tired of PUMPIN'--Still used an old pumper for the Ethyl.
Once I was fillin' 55 Gallon drums on the back of a flat bed, CLIMB DOWN, PUMP, CLIMB UP, AGIN' & AGIN'!----Sittin' on top of the LAST one, RAN IT OVER!!!--What a MISERABLE DAY!!
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

Can't really remember the last time I drank a Squirt, way over 50 years for sure until today. Sure brings back my youth, so much that by the time I've drank this case I'll be back in nappies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[1937pickup]

I remember the smell of the station my dad used to fill up on Saturday.

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by 1937pickup

I remember the smell of the station my dad used to fill up on Saturday.

OH YES, the SMELLS Our fillin' station had smells, like: GAS, KZHAUST STINK, COAL SMOKE, from the pot belly, USED OIL, HOT PATCH SMOKE, sum guy with a CIGAR or a PIPE, ACID STINK from the battery charger area, OLD AIR, wheezing out of an inner tube, FOOD SMELLS frum Richardsons' Café, across the alley, some man that took a "bath" in WITCH HAZEL, Mommas' cheep PERFUME, Chiefs' B.O, that horrible old GREASY SMELL, comin' off a blistering OVERHEATED ENGINE, MANURE SMELL from the guy that kept his car in his BARNYARD, RUBBER SMELL in the tire/tube room, OH! the unusual, indescribable smell of the exhaust from the HYDRAULIC HOIST----------Like a cross of the smell of a cesspool, laced with OLD OIL!!
BUT, the REST ROOMS didn't STINK, guess who cleaned them?? Chief sed I made them smell like a cross, between a HOSPITAL & a FRENCH HOREHOUSE, don't remember whut I used??? Sometimes, whin sumbody really "BOMBED" it, I'd burn newspapers, FIRST, to "neutralize" that smell, so's it didn't start the paint to PEELING on the walls!!! And Momma NEVER failed to ask, "Didja' WASH YO' HANDS"?
Other smells nearby, TRAIN, POST MILL, where they treated posts with CREASOTE, that old mans' PICKLE factory, in the alley, & that "FUNNY" smell from Highway 70, when it just started to rain & I culd go on & on, but I just BROKE a NAIL on my MAJOR tipin' FINGER
Bill W.----(I DON'T make up this "STUFF", it's ALL TRUE, I jist have trubble REMEMBERING it all.)

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Sometimes, whin sumbody really "BOMBED" it, I'd burn newspapers, FIRST, to "neutralize" that smell, so's it didn't start the paint to PEELING on the walls!!! .)

You would have been made NCOIC of the morning shit burning detail in Nam with all that kind of experience Paw!!!!

Paw, you know where or who sells Dr Pepper in bottles?

[SeaSlugs]

http://www.vintagesodas.com/where-to-buy-vintage-sodas

where you can buy pretty much any vintage soda (new made glass bottle stuffyou can drink - im not talking 40 year old soda...)

amazon has a surprising amount of old sodas too.

if you google search where to buy vintage candy alot of different websites pop up.

[RichPA]

Originally Posted by Bruce Adams

The desk telephone, Western Electric 202 set was developed in 1920 and widely available in the 1930's, known as an "H Set" to Telco people and The FDR Phone to many. The wall set represented with the flip in the coin return was a late 1960s development.
In reference to the ubiquitous slide credit card machine, BANK AMERICARD was the first of the bank cards, available in 1958. Credit cards were unheard of at the Long Island gas station I worked in during the late 1950's and early 1960's. The $ 0.40 oil bottles were refilled nightly from bulk oil containers.

Bruce, I see you are from Northport. My summer job in 1969 was pumping gas, fixing flats and changing spark plugs at "Country Life" Shell in Fort Salonga. When I have a few minutes I will add my memories to this great thread.
Rich

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by SeaSlugs

http://www.vintagesodas.com/where-to-buy-vintage-sodas

where you can buy pretty much any vintage soda (new made glass bottle stuffyou can drink - im not talking 40 year old soda...)

amazon has a surprising amount of old sodas too.

if you google search where to buy vintage candy alot of different websites pop up.

I do appreciate those links but I found Dr Pepper cheaper here:

http://soda-emporium.com/FRESH-Case-...-P2356971.aspx

But!!!!! You found for me something that I have been looking for since the late 60s. When I would fly into Saigon, I'd walk over the Aussie transport hut where the Diggers would be arriving in and leaving Nam. They had a soda machine in there and there was an orange soda that I'd die for. Here is it...and thanks much, I owe ya!!!



http://www.sodapopstop.com/products/detail.cfm?link=969

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

But!!!!! You found for me something that I have been looking for since the late 60s. When I would fly into Saigon, I'd walk over the Aussie transport hut where the Diggers would be arriving in and leaving Nam. They had a soda machine in there and there was an orange soda that I'd die for. Here is it...and thanks much, I owe ya!!!



http://www.sodapopstop.com/products/detail.cfm?link=969

Just ordered 12 bottles, sorry, for private consumption only!!!! but ya all can have a Squirt if ya drop by.

[SeaSlugs]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

I do appreciate those links but I found Dr Pepper cheaper here:

http://soda-emporium.com/FRESH-Case-...-P2356971.aspx

But!!!!! You found for me something that I have been looking for since the late 60s. When I would fly into Saigon, I'd walk over the Aussie transport hut where the Diggers would be arriving in and leaving Nam. They had a soda machine in there and there was an orange soda that I'd die for. Here is it...and thanks much, I owe ya!!!



http://www.sodapopstop.com/products/detail.cfm?link=969

Cool, glad i could help! That Aussie blood orange does look tastey, rather dark orange looking. how does it taste in compared to orange crush?

[Mitch//pa]

I only drink 1930's H2O.. It's better for ya

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by SeaSlugs

Cool, glad i could help! That Aussie blood orange does look tastey, rather dark orange looking. how does it taste in compared to orange crush?

At the moment, I can't remember the taste but I do remember the orgasms drinking it!!!!!!! at my age now, I might have a heart attack drinking the first bottle!!!!!!

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Mitch//pa

I only drink 1930's H2O.. It's better for ya

I got some good ole Schlitz for ya!!!!

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

AND, whut does this have to do with the GLORIOUS Model A?
I'll betcha' that an EASY 60% of our business was Model A's, once in awhile, a RUBBER TIRED wagon with MULES would come in for AIR or a FLAT repair, or to buy a USED tire. Sometimes they would trade GAS STAMPS, for an old car at home, that was BROKEN, BAD!
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Anyone remember the kind of clock that was in your neighborhood service station?

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

AND, whut does this have to do with the GLORIOUS Model A?
I'll betcha' that an EASY 60% of our business was Model A's, once in awhile, a RUBBER TIRED wagon with MULES would come in for AIR or a FLAT repair, or to buy a USED tire. Sometimes they would trade GAS STAMPS, for an old car at home, that was BROKEN, BAD!
Bill W.

Bill, I only remember one farmer that still farmed with horses, Biesemeyer was his name and he had a hard time getting help to put up his alfalfa. I do remember when he did get a tractor and a baler and we all thought things would change but nope!!! He would cut in the morning, turn it in the afternoon, bale it the next morning and put it up that afternoon....GREEN and he wanted it stacked on edge and salted down....and again, he had a hard time finding kids to help him put it up. He had no car and still came to town in horse and buggy. I remember two As that were made into hotrods back then but most of the cars were late 30s early 40s....for the po' folks, 50s for the others but that was maybe one or two....the BIG farmers. Darr's Garage always kept old tires when they changed them out for the farmers when they came around looking for an upgrade for their wagons.

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Bill, I only remember one farmer that still farmed with horses, Biesemeyer was his name and he had a hard time getting help to put up his alfalfa. I do remember when he did get a tractor and a baler and we all thought things would change but nope!!! He would cut in the morning, turn it in the afternoon, bale it the next morning and put it up that afternoon....GREEN and he wanted it stacked on edge and salted down....and again, he had a hard time finding kids to help him put it up. He had no car and still came to town in horse and buggy. I remember two As that were made into hotrods back then but most of the cars were late 30s early 40s....for the po' folks, 50s for the others but that was maybe one or two....the BIG farmers. Darr's Garage always kept old tires when they changed them out for the farmers when they came around looking for an upgrade for their wagons.

Chiefs' station was in the '43 to '45 era, in a small S.E. Oklahoma town, small farmers with tractors, was RARE, MANY mules & wagons were used to go do Saturday shopping. The County strived to provide a "scraped" lane alongside the road, to accommodate them & to have RUBBER tires was "special"!
I've even seen MULES & a WAGON, towing a conked out car into town for repairs. Chief had quick access to Ford Parts, the dealership was just across the street, built of HUGE River Rocks, I'll ask Uncle Henry if it's still there. It was owned by Bill Ogan, Chiefs' Buddy from Grammar School. I gotta' STOP, I culd go on FOREVER, this is GREAT FUN!
Bill W.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Chiefs' station was in the '43 to '45 era, in a small S.E. Oklahoma town, small farmers with tractors, was RARE, MANY mules & wagons were used to go do Saturday shopping. The County strived to provide a "scraped" lane alongside the road, to accommodate them & to have RUBBER tires was "special"!
I've even seen MULES & a WAGON, towing a conked out car into town for repairs. Chief had quick access to Ford Parts, the dealership was just across the street, built of HUGE River Rocks, I'll ask Uncle Henry if it's still there. It was owned by Bill Ogan, Chiefs' Buddy from Grammar School. I gotta' STOP, I culd go on FOREVER, this is GREAT FUN!
Bill W.

Next time I drive over to my old home town, I'm going to look through the windows of Darr's Garage and see if there is anything still in there. Would love to have a souvenir from that place of memory!!!

[31 Model A]

Well!!!! I want to thank everyone that contributed to this thread. I asked for memories and I got many. A lot of great ideas were mentioned and I went with a few suggestions.

Someone suggested Wrigley's Spearmint gum and it was a toss up between gum or Life Savors, I went with Life Savors mainly because of the heat and the longevity. Someone suggested a cash receipt spike, found a nice restored one. I already had the phone, 202 dated between 1930-34 and ashtrays were mentioned also. I remember the pistons being used to either hold pens or ashes, I already had a tire ashtray from Chicago dated 1934.

There was no way around not having a cash register so I finally found one, 1927 model, that was worth the money and someone who would ship it. Unfortunately it arrived with one pane of glass broke but that can be replaced but it works perfectly. One thing I came across quite by accident was a Revere Rubber Co glass business card desk holder. It has a patent of 1889 on it. I dated it somewhere late 20s/early 30s I haven't received that yet, Friday maybe. All in all, it's everything I was hoping to acquire, also the 1931 Rexall calendar and.............I dug out of my trunk my 1934 framed photo of me and my wife, Grace Grit. Her maiden name was Grit and she was the heiress to the Grit Newspaper empire, talk about a kid going from that scruffy newspaper boy to head publisher!!! A rags to riches story for sure. Thanks to everyone and their brain....that still worked!!!!!!!!

[31 Model A]

Sorry, can't seem to delete that last photo, it's what making everything screwed up, maybe it can be deleted by Paul.

[31 Model A]

I have two other items coming, 1920s/30s related baseball. How many here can remember the Knothole Gangs????? or the Boys Brigade????

[Y-Blockhead]

Didn't see them mentioned. Do you remember S&H Green Stamps. We used to give them out at the station I worked at. I believe the started giving them out in the 30's.

[CarlG]

Originally Posted by Y-Blockhead

Didn't see them mentioned. Do you remember S&H Green Stamps. We used to give them out at the station I worked at. I believe the started giving them out in the 30's.

As a newly married person in the early 60's, we furnished our first apartment with furniture we "bought" with S&H Green Stamps.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Y-Blockhead

Didn't see them mentioned. Do you remember S&H Green Stamps. We used to give them out at the station I worked at. I believe the started giving them out in the 30's.

I remember them quite well. I do have a sign that says, S&H Stamps Offered Here. As for as having some for customers, no but I can get them. I might get a sheet, an early sheet and lay them on the cash register or inside the drawer.

[mshmodela]

31 Model A, very nice avatar photo of you as kid ,

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by mshmodela

31 Model A, very nice avatar photo of you as kid ,

I haven't aged at all either...............

[jthomas6]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

I haven't aged at all either...............

Yeah, by my calculations, it would be rather difficult!

"Here I am in front of Todd's Grocery in 1932 selling Grit."
and
"I dug out of my trunk my 1934 framed photo of me and my wife, Grace Grit."

just don't add up!

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by jthomas6

Yeah, by my calculations, it would be rather difficult!

"Here I am in front of Todd's Grocery in 1932 selling Grit."
and
"I dug out of my trunk my 1934 framed photo of me and my wife, Grace Grit."

just don't add up!

MMMMM!!!! I need to make some changes, that me in ...1928!!! Yeah! That's it!!! and I can prove it too, just give me a week or so.

[31 Model A]

Anyone here from Winona, Texas or there abouts?????????????

[ericr]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Anyone remember the kind of clock that was in your neighborhood service station?

wasn't it some big neon thing that hung high up on the building?

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ericr

wasn't it some big neon thing that hung high up on the building?

I was thinking more as to those that hung on the wall inside. Most I remember ran on electricity and later, much later, on batteries. I was thinking more the wind up with a key.

[ericr]

let me complicate this a little: here in Ohio, when I was a kid, we had "Blue Laws" that made businesses close on Sunday. they were either not enforced on, or they exempted drug stores (which incidentally took advantage of it by selling everything from soup to nuts)

were gas stations exempt from Sunday closing laws?

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by ericr

let me complicate this a little: here in Ohio, when I was a kid, we had "Blue Laws" that made businesses close on Sunday. they were either not enforced on, or they exempted drug stores (which incidentally took advantage of it by selling everything from soup to nuts)

were gas stations exempt from Sunday closing laws?

I remember local gas stations were closed on Sundays here in Illinois and the only place for sure one could get gas was on the few Interstates then. I'm talking 50s, I'm sure they were all closed in the 30s. The father always made sure the car was full for a Sunday drive. I'm sure big city gas stations some were open. As for Drug Stores, closed on Sundays but....each store by turn were on call for an emergency prescription filling.

[31 Model A]

The Revere Rubber Company business card holder that arrived today is not a business card holder but rather a....paperweight, which is more understandable....I believe. Regardless, it's a nice addition.

[31 Model A]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Originally Posted by Y-Blockhead

Didn't see them mentioned. Do you remember S&H Green Stamps. We used to give them out at the station I worked at. I believe the started giving them out in the 30's.

I found some unused 1930s Green Stamps, a bit more than I needed, so if anyone needs a few to finish off some books, let me know.

Underneath the paperweight will be a good place for on display.

Cheers.............

[Cool Hand Lurker]

cigars
cigarettes
cigarillos

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Cool Hand Lurker

cigars
cigarettes
cigarillos

What I remember was a cigarette machine and a box of cigars inside the glass counter. Saw no advertisement for either.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by jthomas6

Yeah, by my calculations, it would be rather difficult!

"Here I am in front of Todd's Grocery in 1932 selling Grit."
and
"I dug out of my trunk my 1934 framed photo of me and my wife, Grace Grit."

just don't add up!

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

MMMMM!!!! I need to make some changes, that me in ...1928!!! Yeah! That's it!!! and I can prove it too, just give me a week or so.

It wasn't in the same trunk but I found my old bag in another. Funny, it still held a couple of my last papers that I never sold dated Sept 1937. Grace and I divorced in 36. BTW, that little pennant and badge was my St Louis Browns Boys Brigade pin.

[johnsor]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

I too remember the ice blocks, 10 cents a block at the ice house. Put ten cents in and out came a block of ice. I remember putting my head inside the icebox on hot days too. I do have the gas stamps though Bill. You rest up now, cum'on back when ever yur a bit fit to typ sum more.

Don't have room for a pot belly, if I did, I'd have one for sure..............

In the late 40's when I worked in a gas station, gas pumps did not have automatic nozzle shut off when the gas tank was full. You had to lean down and listen for the whistle noise to stop. Most customers told you how many gallons they wanted or the dollar amount they wanted put in. We gave S&H green stamps and double stamps on Wednesdays. Oh, memories, I could go on and on.

[Cool Hand Lurker]

Originally Posted by johnsor

In the late 40's when I worked in a gas station, gas pumps did not have automatic nozzle shut off when the gas tank was full. You had to lean down and listen for the whistle noise to stop. Most customers told you how many gallons they wanted or the dollar amount they wanted put in. We gave S&H green stamps and double stamps on Wednesdays. Oh, memories, I could go on and on.

Ah, the whistle! As I recall, most of the time it was a gurgle except on the Chevys. The Chevys had the whistle, like a long train coming out of the tunnel.
You really had to pay attention too or you could get an earful of gas when it topped off.
At the Clark station you had to beat the car to the pump and take your turn to whitewash the concrete curbing every day.

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by 31 Model A

Need to remember back, as far back as the 30s, whether you lived it, like I did , or from stories from your dad, granddad, etc. What was on the counter at the filling stations? I remember a cash register, a telephone, mini-tire ashtray, some candy maybe, logo matches...........do you remember anything that has stuck in your memory? Remember, before there was also a credit card slider sitting there too!!!!!

Cheers..........

MY MY!!! over 5000 views since this was just started. Lot's of memories, ideas and suggestions.....I'm all done, what I didn't dig out of my trunks, everything else has arrived. No room for anything else now...I've reached my limit, my goal ...thanks to all. Loved your memories....great to have them.......thanks for sharing.

Ed

[Mitch//pa]

SILENCE is GOLDEN
how long will that last

[chopt32]

free air pumps like ECO Tireflater and many others

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by chopt32

free air pumps like ECO Tireflater and many others

Welcome to the Barn....did you read the rules? Punishment for resurrecting old threads is a case of fine wine for the originator of the thread which is ....ME!!!!!

[daveymc29]

Free road maps of the state and the united states. Some even had maps of county roads and big cities nearby. When I was planning my escape from Idaho to California at age 13, I looked over those maps to plan my trip, me and my bicycle. I worried that I wouldn't be able to see my familiar landmark, Stack Rock, which I could see from most all of southwestern Idaho, so I eventually hopped a bus to Winnemucca and the greyhound to Oakland. Left the old Schwinn behind, never saw it again.

[barnstuf]

I grew up in a summer resort community and 2 summers I was gas pump attendant for a general store with postoffice. This was 1939 and 1940. Customers were local year rounders, summer folks who owned a cottage and the day tripper passing through. Our oil was dispensed in quart cars with a screw on top pouring spout, and I had to keep them filled from large drums in a shed near the store. You cranked a handle that pumped one quart to fill the bottles, then you turned it back to set for the next fill up. Every customer had his oil checked, windshield washed and gas was .18 per gallon.
In the general store the telephone was on the wall the same as our phone at home. My area did not have table top phones yet. The phone company man came about once and year and put new batteries in the phone. I made change for customers from the general store cash register and there were no automotive displays in the store. I worked 8 hours a day, 7 days a week from school closing for the summer until the day before it reopened.

[Brian in Wheeling]

You-hoo and Cokes in 6oz bottles, bulk oil, pump side service. if you couldn't afford new oil you could get used oil by the quart pumped out of the drum. repairing flats with hot patches or a boot if you had a blowout. Full service all around.

Brian

[Marshall57]

I don't know if anyone mentioned the restroom key chained to an engine block,,, LOL really I have seen 2X4s big pieces of metal with restroom blow torched into them, tire irons chained to them,,, LOL lots of funny things attached so they wouldn't walk off.

[Skeezixx]

Where is the cigarette machine?!

[31 Model A]

Originally Posted by Skeezixx

Where is the cigarette machine?!

Thought about one but after checking into the legality, thought I'd pass. Kids from the neighborhood stop in with a nickel now and then and get a Cracker Jack, chips, gum, coke, etc. I didn't need a vendors license as long as what's dispense is under 50c. Cost quite a bit more to fill the machines up but the kids and younger folks are entertained. All my antique vending machines dispense for a nickel. Had a chance at an old Kotex machine a few weeks back.................I passed on that too!!!!

[29FordRoadster]

It may have been later than the thirties, but stations used to have a spark plug in a bird cage with the notation " This bird was caught stealing gas."