Images(2)

Card, Credit

Object number2009.37.1

Datec. 1935

MediumPaper; Plastic; Ink

Credit LineGift of Tony Gennaccaro

DescriptionOrange paper credit card, laminated.Dimensions2.125 x 3.5 in. (5.4 x 8.9 cm)
InscriptionsPrinted on obverse, "CREDIT [GULF logo] CARD / NO. 1 / 401-1925 / GEO ADAMS / C/O W L MELLON / 5360 FORBES ST / PITTSBURGH 17 PA / GOOD FOR LAND, AIR AND SEA DELIVERIES".
Reverse side has list of five "CONDITIONS" on use of card; near bottom, "THIS CARD WILL BE HONORED AT AUTOMOTIVE, AIRPORT, AND MARINE SERVICE STATIONS AUTHORIZED BY / GULF OIL CORPORATION GULF REFINING COMPANY / GULF 7265-D".
Historical NotesGulf Oil credit card owned by the donor's grandfather, George Adams (Dec. 6, 1901-1949), the personal chauffer of W. L. Mellon (William Larimer Mellon, Sr.). Adams became Mellon's chauffer in 1935 and stayed in the position until both of their deaths in 1949; Mellon died in October and Adams died in November. The Adam's family lived above the garage on the Mellon's property at 5360 Forbes Street. George's daughter Dorothy grew up on the estate, she does not remember when her father received the credit card, but assumes it was when he started in 1935. She believes it was the first Gulf credit card ever made. Her father filled up Mellon's car at the Gulf station that was on the corner of Forbes and Murray. After the death of their father and W. L. Mellon, Dorothy and her mother moved into the main house and let people in who came to buy parts of the interior. They moved out just months before the house was demolished in 1951.

Previous owner George Adams

Related person William Larimer Mellon Sr.

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