Bobby Tanzilo of OnMilwaukee.com published an interview with Mark and I about our forthcoming gas station book which I thought was interesting enough to share. A particularly interesting question Bobby posed was "Is there any movement to preserve this part of American history?"
It is our hope that this book will help to celebrate the gas station's colorful and interesting history and to show readers that these stations are not only important pieces of Americana, but are useful structures that are adaptive and flexible in meeting modern needs.
Unlike the train stations of the 19th century, which found their place along the extremities of communities, gas stations were constructed near the vehicular heart and veins, making the locations excellent choices for adaptive reuse. Depots have survived as local chamber office, museums, and occasionally small offices, but gas stations hold more potential. We see a day coming where the lowly historic gas station will become something of wonder and interest. Appreciation is awakening and Mark and I are doing our small part in opening the eyes of people to the fascinating history of the ordinary buildings around them.
No comments:
Post a Comment