The Flat and the Filling Station

There was an area at the west end of the bridge that was just known as “The Flat”. This area was basically an entrance to the “New Mill”. It was located next to the small parking lot for the mill workers. A big parking lot was not needed because most of the workers walked to work.

There was a large oak tree with benches under it where men often gathered before or after shift changes. The stories, jokes, and tall tales told under this tree would have probably filled a library. It was a very popular spot for men. I don’t recall ever seeing a woman setting on one of the benches.

The railroad tracks for the steam locomotive called “The Dummy” ran right across the Flat and right beside the tree on both sides. Many stories were interrupted by the wheezing steam and loud whistle and bell of the “Dummy.”

The main thing at the Flat was a small brick building known as “The Filling Station”. Even though it did have gas pumps it was much more a filling station for people. It was a fabulous restaurant and café. They had the most delicious food - hotdogs, hamburgers, chili burgers BLT”s and the best sweet iced tea in the western world. To this day, 60+ years later, the food from the Filling Station is my standard of excellence in food.

My great aunt, Blanch Arnold, along with others, made the food. She was a very sweet person, always in a good mood and very witty. She made the Filling Station feel almost like home to me.

I don’t recall that the Filling Station had any stools at the counter. I know that it did not have any tables. You either stood at the counter to eat or took your food with you. Stand up or not, it was a great place. Writing this, even after more than half a century since I ate there, still makes my mouth water and I can still smell those hot dogs.