Marvin’s Esso Station & Dining Room

Type of Business: Gas Station, Restaurant

Years of Operation: Before 1949 – After 1955

Location: 820 York St NE

Family: Efron (Marvin Rifkin & Mollie Efron Rifkin)

This Esso service station and drive-in restaurant was run by Marvin Rifkin and his wife Mollie Efron Rifkin, daughter of Jake Efron. Like the Efron’s, Marvin had come to Aiken from St Louis. This establishment is believed to be one of several fueling stations owned by Marvin. It was located next to the Rifkin family home on Rt 1 and was a popular spot for travelers to stop on long drives between NY to Miami. It was also a popular spot for Aiken teenagers to hang out, especially since the age to get a drivers license was only 14 at the time.