As we wrote last week's post, we thought about a Democrat & Chronicle article (2-27-12, 1B) by Bob Marcotte regarding gasoline rationing during the war years. (See "Brakes put on pleasure driving," Democrat and Chronicle, 2-27-12). He wrote:
"Gasoline rationing began in the eastern states in 1942..." following losses of oil tankers in the Atlantic. Gasoline shortages intensified, and in January 1943, "Americans in 17 eastern states and the District of Columbia were told they would no longer be allowed to drive their cars for pleasure--not to the movies not to a hockey game, not to a lodge meeting, and certainly not to accordion lessons." For those who did not comply with these rules, harsh penalties were imposed. For example, concert-goers at Eastman Theater had their ration books seized...which meant those drivers could no longer purchase gasoline.
Ration books ... do you remember them? There are some in the Bullis collection, still partially filled with little coupons to be torn off and handed to a merchant in order to buy gas, sugar, etc. If you're feeling nostalgic, or just want to see what a ration book really was, stop by the Bullis Room and let us show you.
Today, we can drive for pleasure. Something to be grateful for.
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