This vintage linen-era postcard features the Gateway Motel, located just 5 miles east of Huntington, West Virginia on U.S. Route 60. The image shows the long, single-story red-brick motel with a bold rooftop sign reading “Gateway Motel – Vacancy” above the office. A classic 1950s-era automobile is parked in front, adding to the period charm.

• Back Description: Promoted as “West Virginia’s Newest and Best”, the Gateway Motel offered 22 units, each with air conditioning, steam heat, and fireproof brick construction. The property promised “Southern hospitality with modern comfort.”

• Owner/Operator: Originally listed as G.W. Triplett (name later crossed out in print run).

• Publisher: Butler Enterprises, Inc., Winston-Salem, N.C.

• Card Number: 15,894F

• Era: Linen postcard, circa 1940s–1950s

• Postally Unused

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with only light corner and edge wear. Reverse has some original ink strikeouts as printed. Colors are bright and well preserved. Please review scans for details.

Historical Context:

During the post-World War II boom, motels like the Gateway sprang up along major U.S. highways, catering to America’s growing car culture and love of road trips. Situated on busy U.S. Route 60, the Gateway Motel was ideally positioned to serve travelers heading to Huntington, Charleston, and points beyond.

Linen postcards like this one, produced between the 1930s and 1950s, are known for their bold colors and textured surfaces. They capture the golden age of American roadside travel, when motels proudly advertised amenities like air conditioning and fireproof construction to attract weary drivers.

Perfect for collectors of:

• West Virginia postcards

• Vintage motel & roadside Americana

• Huntington & Route 60 history

• Linen postcards of the 1940s–50s

• Automobile travel & tourism memorabilia