If you grew up in the 1950s or 1960s, chances are you might have gone on a cross-country car trip with your family. And your journey probably included a stop at Stuckey's, a turquoise-roofed building along one of America's highways. At Stuckey's you bought gas, food, and souvenirs. You also used the clean restrooms and basked in the atmosphere of air conditioning. Finally, before you left Stuckey's, you purchased some candy, probably one of their famous Pecan Log Rolls. You were ready to continue your trip.

The 1950s marked the first time in American history when families were able to travel throughout the United States. These benefits came about due to the post-World War II economic boom and the availability of leisure time afforded workers in the new American corporate structure. This freedom was also greatly enhanced by the introduction of the Interstate Highway...