The Coffee Pot (Bedford, Pennsylvania)

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The Coffee Pot is a notable roadside attraction located in Bedford, Pennsylvania. Constructed in 1927 by David Berton Koontz, The Coffee Pot was initially designed to attract visitors to his adjacent gas station. Its unique architecture, resembling a giant coffee pot, is a prime example of novelty or programmatic architecture, a style of building design popular in the United States during the early 20th century, intended to catch the eye of motorists and draw in customers.

History

The idea behind The Coffee Pot was to capitalize on the burgeoning automobile culture of the early 20th century. Koontz aimed to create a distinctive landmark that would serve as a beacon for travelers along the Lincoln Highway, one of the earliest transcontinental highways for automobiles across the United States. The Coffee Pot did just that, offering refreshments and a memorable stop for travelers and tourists.

Over the decades, The Coffee Pot went through various phases, serving not only as a diner but also as a bar and a bus station at different times. However, by the late 20th century, it had fallen into disrepair and was threatened with demolition. Recognizing its historical and cultural significance, the Bedford County Historical Society, along with other local preservationists, rallied to save The Coffee Pot. In 2004, it was moved to a new location across the street from the Bedford County Fairgrounds, a move that was crucial for its preservation and restoration.

Restoration and Preservation

The restoration of The Coffee Pot was a significant undertaking, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving its unique heritage. The project not only involved structural repairs but also aimed to restore the building's original appearance, including its distinctive signage and coffee pot shape. Today, The Coffee Pot stands as a proud symbol of Bedford's history and a testament to the effectiveness of grassroots historical preservation efforts.

Significance

The Coffee Pot is more than just a building; it is a piece of Americana, embodying the spirit of the early road-trip culture in the United States. It is a surviving example of programmatic architecture, which saw buildings designed as objects or animals to attract attention from the road. This form of architecture was particularly popular among establishments along highways, seeking to draw in motorists with their eye-catching designs.

Current Use

While The Coffee Pot no longer serves as a diner or restaurant, it remains a popular tourist attraction and a photogenic landmark for visitors to Bedford. It is often included in guides to historic Route 30 and the Lincoln Highway, celebrated not only for its unique design but also for its story of community-led preservation.

See Also

• Lincoln Highway
• Programmatic Architecture
• Roadside Attraction
• Bedford, Pennsylvania