A recently restored historic filling station in downtown Bowling Green is featured in the current issue of Preservation, the magazine of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (www.preservationnation.org).  A 1921 Standard Oil Station at the corner of College Street and Seventh Avenue was converted into public restrooms for the adjacent Circus Square Park last year and is garnering national attention while becoming a must-see stop for auto enthusiasts, history buffs, and general visitors to the city.

The magazine contacted local preservationist Dorian Walker after learning of several community restoration projects either recently completed or currently underway.  “Bowling Green was already on the National Trust’s radar after being selected a 2006 Dozen Distinctive Destination and for having a number of historic districts registered,” explains Walker.  “Of the projects we discussed, the filling station most piqued their interest after I shared details of how community members rallied to save this demolition-fated property.”

The once bustling building had turned into an eyesore in what was becoming the centerpiece of Bowling Green’s downtown revitalization.  Purchased by the city as part of the Circus Square Park site with funds from a state grant, the dilapidated building’s future was bleak amidst new construction.  “The question arose of whether to save it or tear it down, so myself and several other community preservation advocates began the campaign to restore this important piece of transportation heritage,” Walker said. 

As the home of the GM Corvette Assembly Plant, the National Corvette Museum, Beech Bend Raceway, Holley Performance Products, and travel writer turned packaged foods king Duncan Hines, Bowling Green understands the value of its transportation history.  Host of the annual NHRA Hot Rod Reunion and dozens of other car-related events, the community even voted to name its new professional Minor League baseball team the Hot Rods in 2009. 

The Standard Oil Station fits perfectly among these niche attractions and events, and a full-color storyboard explains the building’s history to visitors.  “Our office is thrilled to promote this historical preservation project that not only serves the public but also provides a unique tourism asset,” said Vicki Fitch, Executive Director of the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. 

“Based on our suggestion, the NHRA Hot Rod Reunion organizers routed their 2009 Cruise-In past the station for professional photographs and participants just loved it.  We look forward to sharing this jewel with future travelers to our city,” she continued.

Among the artifacts uncovered during the restoration was an AAA Guidebook found in the filling station’s attic noting the one-time Dixie Highway on which the station sits.  Just as travel habits and street names will change, America’s love affair with the open road will remain, and a physical example coupled with the story of how a town was involved from the very beginning is worth saving.  

The Preservation article can be found at www.preservationnation.org/magazine/2010/january-february/gold-standard-nt.html.