A History of Service Stations in the Tri-City Area

My service station was constructed by Charles McCornack in 1928 as his new headquarters at a cost of over $65,000. In this era, the average cost for a service station was about $5,000 .

 This early photograph shows the west end of the service station and the original two–bay construction. To this date the original clay tile roof remains along with copper gutters and downspouts. 

The construction of a third bay, elimination of the in-ground pits and addition of two overhead lifts solidified the station's existence for another 50 years.

"Bob & Len, Your Texaco Men" with their crew. Three of the staff will go on to own their own businesses.

Decorated for Christmas in 1979. In the photo on the right, Archie and Linda Bentz are in the showroom surrounded by a collection of gas globes representing family history.

The former service station now serves the community as the St. Charles Historical Museum. "Refueling the Past" is waiting for you in the current Gift Shop.

I can not give enough praise for the support from Alison Costanzo, Amanda Helfers, Tim Kirsinindas and Lindsay Judd in my research efforts.

Chris Winters, now retired, instructed me on research, followed by Jennifer Putzier's assistance with Sanborn Maps and photos. Now supported by Amber Foster.

The Batavia Historian was an invaluable resource and permission was given to reproduce many photographs.

George Scheetz and his staff were highly supportive in my days of research. They also provided space for the Tri-City Gas 

round-table discussions

Terry Emma and Jessica Strube hosted a brown bag lunch symposium on the subject of gas stations with all the Tri-City museums presenting.

Laura Chaplin opened the doors and files to the resources for Elburn and other rural Kane County communities.

A great place to visit with a very surprising array of displays. Did you know they were a wagon manufacturer first?

The greatest cars America ever built are on display in the original Art Deco buildings.