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The Long Gas Lines of Washington, D.C. in 1942

  • Published February 22, 2015
Washington, D.C. Passengers, drivers, and dogs were tired by the time they reached the gas pumps on the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect
Take a look back at World War II-era Washington, D.C. with these photos of the long gas lines in the city on June 21st, 1942, the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect.
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I saw this photo and I had to share it.

This is a photo from June 21st, 1942. We were in the early days of World War II and in the middle of rationing. This poor pup was sitting with his owner waiting through long gas lines the day before strict rationing went into effect. I’m sure it was exceedingly uncomfortable and hot that summer in Washington.

Washington, D.C. Passengers, drivers, and dogs were tired by the time they reached the gas pumps on the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect
Washington, D.C. Passengers, drivers, and dogs were tired by the time they reached the gas pumps on the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect
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Source: Library of Congress

Here are some more photos from the same series.

Washington, D.C. At 7 a.m. on June 21st, the day before stricter gas rationing was enforced, cars were pouring into this gas station on upper Wisconsin
Washington, D.C. At 7 a.m. on June 21st, the day before stricter gas rationing was enforced, cars were pouring into this gas station on upper Wisconsin
Washington, D.C. Even the oldest jalopies were out to have their tanks filled on the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect
Washington, D.C. Even the oldest jalopies were out to have their tanks filled on the day before stricter gasoline rationing went into effect
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Washington, D.C. This sign appeared at one upper Wisconsin Avenue gas station by 8:30 a.m.
Washington, D.C. This sign appeared at one upper Wisconsin Avenue gas station by 8:30 a.m.

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