A man guides traffic during interstate construction in Salt Lake City, 1961. Courtesy of the Utah State Archives.

Car Country 

The interstate transformed the landscape across the United States into what the environmental historian Christopher Wells called Car Country. Wells argued Americans had a complicated relationship with roads—that before the interstate, people lived in walkable communities and trips to larger towns were few and far between. Those living and working in cities relied on public transportation to get them where they needed to go.[1]  

However, as cars became more affordable and prominent within their lives, Americans began to move out of the cities and into the suburbs, creating an increased need for roads that catered to commuters. In response to this demand, planners designed cities and communities for cars, replacing traditional walkable communities. [2] 

A Beeline gas station in Salt Lake City, 1960. Courtesy of the University of Utah, Marriott Library. 

“It is no accident that so many auto images come from the fifties and sixties, when a booming economy of returning vets, fine-tuned production, and clever marketing and advertising made the car a central fact of American culture.” [4]  

Notice how many people and cars are packed into the Streator Chevrolet car dealership in Salt Lake City. Courtesy of the University of Utah, Marriott Library. 

Car Dealerships 

Car dealerships served the double purpose of supplying Americans with jobs as well as satiating the ever-increasing demand for cars.  

Ford car show in Salt Lake City, c. 1959.  Notice the signs around the room that state “The 59 Ford brings Thunderbird elegance to the low-price field,” and “Ford trucks cost less.” Courtesy of the Utah State Historical Society. 

 

Car Shows 

Car shows became a hobby for many Americans seeking to admire old designs and peruse their options for a new vehicle. Car shows also served as a space for companies to advertise to their growing customer base.