The classic diner is an icon of the American roadside. As cars were
mass-produced, so were these aluminum gems, whose metal bodies and neon
signs came to characterize modernity in the mid-twentieth century. From
the 1920s to the 1950s, these eye-catching eateries promoted themselves
on many giveaway matchcovers and postcards. Today, these highly
collectible pieces of ephemera provide a colorful visual record of
diners from all over the country. Nearly 450 examples are included here,
along with a history of the diner and related information about
postcards and matchcovers of the era. Enjoy a nostalgic, state-by-state
tour of architecturally unique, vintage American diners.