Energy | When Did Gasoline Stations Open?
When did gasoline stations open?
The first service station (or garage) was opened in Bordeaux, France, in December 1895 by A. Barol. It provided overnight parking and repair service, and sold motor oil and "motor spirit" (fuel). In April 1897 a parking and refueling establishment—Brighton Cycle and Motor Company—opened in Brighton, England.
The first gasoline pump was devised by Sylanus Bowser of Fort Wayne, Indiana, in September 1885. However, this pump was originally used to dispense kerosene. Twenty years later Bowser manufactured the first self-regulating gasoline pump.
In 1912, a Standard Oil of Louisiana superstation opened in Memphis, Tennessee. It featured 13 gas pumps, a ladies' rest room, and a maid who served ice water to waiting customers. On December 1, 1913, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the Gulf Refining Company opened the first 24-hour drive-in gas station. The station sold only 30...
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