The Richfield Beacon Service Station opened at 8415 South Tacoma Way in July of 1930. The J.W. Feak Co. constructed the Normandy style building. Edward L. Roth managed the landmark $35,000 service station, which included a 125 ft. tower topped with two 8,000,000 candle power beacons. This Beacon service station was one of 24 operating between Tacoma and Mexico. Each was located on main highways and operated 24 hours a day. Mayor Melvin G. Tennent, pictured above, was the first to buy gas on opening day. TPL-3548; G48.1-019 (Tacoma Sunday Ledger, 7-13-30, E-3 -article & alternate photograph)

Richfield Beacon Service Station (Lakewood); Automobile service stations--Lakewood--1930-1940; Tennent, Melvin Green; Mayors--Tacoma--1930-1940;