18 Once-Popular Gas Stations That No Longer Exist
These once-thriving gas stations were a common sight on highways and city streets, but changing times led to their disappearance.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
Many gas stations had unique branding, diner-style food, or even full-service attendants. However, shifts in the fuel industry, economic downturns, and evolving consumer habits led to their downfall. Here is a look at some of the most iconic gas stations that have disappeared from the roads.
1. Standard Oil
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Before its breakup in 1911, Standard Oil was the dominant name in fuel. Its legacy lived on through brands like Esso and Amoco, but the original name disappeared. This gas station empire helped shape the modern fuel industry.
2. Texaco
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Texaco was once one of the most recognized fuel brands, with its red star logo shining across. The U.S. Mergers and rebranding led to its stations being absorbed into Chevron. Though some remnants remain, Texaco stations are essentially a thing of the past.
3. Amoco
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Amoco was a major player in the fuel industry and was known for its clean fuel promise. It merged with BP in the 1990s, leading to the disappearance of standalone Amoco stations. However, the name has made a small comeback in select locations.
4. Gulf Oil
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Gulf Oil was once a dominant force, introducing the first drive-in gas station. A series of mergers led to its disappearance from the American landscape. While the brand still exists in limited forms, its once-thriving network is gone.
5. Sinclair
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Known for its green dinosaur logo, Sinclair stations once dotted the country. While a few still exist, most have vanished, unable to compete with larger fuel companies. The brand’s unique marketing made it a favorite among travelers.
6. Phillips 66
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Phillips 66 was a go-to stop along America’s highways, especially on Route 66. While the brand still exists, many original stations have closed or been converted. The company’s iconic shield logo remains a nostalgic symbol for road trip enthusiasts.
7. Union 76
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Union 76 was easily recognized by its bright orange ball logo. Changes in ownership and branding led to the disappearance of many stations. While a few remain, the brand is no longer the powerhouse it once was.
8. Sunoco
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Sunoco was once a major fuel provider known for its high-performance gasoline. While some situations remain, many have disappeared due to shifting market trends. The brand’s legacy continues through sponsorships, but its footprint has shrunk.
9. Mobil
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Mobil, with its iconic red Pegasus logo, was a major fuel brand before merging with Exxon. Many standalone Mobil stations were rebranded or closed as ExxonMobil focused on expansion under a single name. Though the brand still exists, its individual presence has faded.
10. ARCO
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ARCO was once known for offering cheaper gas with a no-frills experience. As fuel markets shifted, many locations were rebranded or shut down. While a few stations still exist, they are no longer as widespread as they once were.
11. Shamrock
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Shamrock gas stations were once common in the Midwest. They offered reliable fuel at competitive prices. However, the brand slowly disappeared due to acquisitions and industry consolidation. Some remnants of Shamrock can still be found on old roadside signs.
12. Marathon
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Marathon was a respected name in the fuel industry, but its presence has declined due to corporate restructuring. While some stations still exist, many were absorbed into other brands. The company’s logo remains recognizable but is far less visible on the road.
13. Pure Oil
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Pure Oil was a well-known gas station brand with distinctive blue and white stations. However, acquisitions led to its disappearance over time. Some old stations have been preserved as historical landmarks, but the brand itself is gone.
14. Richfield
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Richfield gas stations were known for their distinctive blue and gold signage. The brand was eventually merged into Atlantic Richfield (ARCO), leading to the disappearance of standalone Richfield stations. Though the name faded, its influence remains in ARCO’s history.
15. Flying A
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Flying A stations were popular in the mid-20th century but struggled to keep up with larger competitors. The brand eventually disappeared as larger fuel companies bought up smaller stations. Classic car enthusiasts still remember its unique branding.
16. Red Crown
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Red Crown pioneered the gasoline industry before being absorbed into Standard Oil. The brand’s distinct red and white stations were once a common sight. Today, only old advertisements and restored stations serve as reminders of its existence.
17. Skelly
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Skelly was a Midwestern gas station known for its friendly service and community-focused business. However, larger companies eventually took over, and the brand disappeared. Some old signs still stand, but Skelly stations are long gone.
18. DX
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DX stations were a familiar sight in parts of the U.S., offering quality fuel and service. The brand was eventually merged into Sunoco, leading to the closure of DX-branded stations. Only a few relics of this once-popular chain remain.