Brief History of Gas Stations

While it is true that improving a service station takes effort and expense, it is also true that strategy implementation will assist you in making your mark in the industry. But how were gas stations made? Who was the pioneer of gas stations?

We have compiled a guide to help you discover the origins of gas stations. Take a look at this guide to understand the historical background of gas stations.

The Origin

The inaugural drive-in gas station debuted in Pennsylvania in 1913. Since 1905, vehicles in the United States were authorized to fill their fuel at gas stations, but these were merely roadside setups. Traditionally, drivers purchased fuel in containers from pharmacists and blacksmith stores and filled their tanks. In Pittsburgh, a historical landmark was formed with the inauguration of this gas station on St. Clair Street.

20^th Century Trends

Bowser’s idea ushered in a new type of ‘gas station’ industry. Petroleum was supplied directly on the curbside, resulting in traffic bottlenecks. Even earlier gas stations depended on roadside pumps. By 1910, when there were half a million cars on American roadways, this trend became an issue. The answer was the drive-in service stations, which helped usher in a successful period for American automobiles.

In its first week, it supplied 30 gallons of fuel for twenty-seven cents per gallon, and drive-in gas stations proliferated almost as quickly as the automotive industry.  As newly formed oil businesses competed for market dominance, the 1911 breakdown of the Standard Oil cartel spurred innovation and gas station expansion.

There was originally minimal necessity for other automobile solutions, as Ford’s cars were built for uncomplicated user upkeep. Each Ford was equipped with an “oil cup” so the motorist could maintain their vehicle. Nevertheless, as GM started to overtake Ford in popularity, gas station owners started to build “greasing stations.” In 1926, Sinclair established the initial three outlets with lubricating machinery.

The drive-in gas station sector was about to face a drastic upheaval, irrespective of design or use, with the introduction of self-service outlets. When Frank Ulrich launched a self-service gas station in 1947, the greatest danger to the career progression of gas station personnel emerged.

Thanks to technological advancement, manufacturers have introduced new solutions and products to help gas station owners optimize their business.

You must not only select the best technology for your service station but also maintain and modify it on a constant schedule for increased output. The John W. Kennedy Company is a top-of-the-line gas pump and fuel gear distributor providing services throughout various areas in Rhode Island. We also provide on-site maintenance and logistics services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

From petroleum storage systems to power monitoring devices, gas station casters, and pumps, we have it all. For costs and a rough estimate, contact our professionals today.