Then and Now: Brick’s Gulf Gas and Service Station
There is just something that I love about old gas stations and gas pumps. There was often a stylish craftsmanship that we generally don’t see in the new all business, efficient stations of today. Beautiful looking gasoline pumps, decorative building elements, a person manning the station who does more than grunt at you when he gives you change at the register – perfect examples of they don’t make ’em like that anymore.
In many ways I suppose the gas station symbolizes being on the go and traveling. Perhaps that is part of what fuels my interest. If we’re filling up we’re going somewhere!
Brick’s Gulf Gas & Service Station – Then and Now
Then: Brick’s Gulf Gas Station – 1948
582 Sixth Avenue – West 17th Street – New York
So many beautiful vintage elements in this photo. From the construction of the station itself, to the vintage Gulf sign, to the fading ghost ads on the surrounding buildings. It’s hard to believe that this is the same 6th avenue of today.
Image courtesy: NY Public Library
Now: Sixth Avenue & West 17th Street – August 2010
Wow. What a difference! I love then and now comparison pics.
I like the “before” better
I’m with you both.
NYC had some really neat service stations scattered all around the city. Now you can only find gas in Manhattan if you have a GPS or have been to the station before. They’re like secret gas stations.