For decades, a visit to Pendleton’s Service Station at 1111 Desiard Street was more than just a stop for fuel—it was an experience. Run by Joseph A. Pendleton, a dedicated businessman, civic leader, and deacon, the station became a cornerstone of Monroe’s Black community from the 1950s through the 1980s.
A Business With a Mission
Pendleton’s Service Station stood out in more ways than one. Unlike modern gas stations, it remained the last full-service station in Monroe, where customers didn’t have to lift a finger. Every visit came with air in the tires, a windshield wiped spotless, an oil check, and even a vacuuming of the car’s interior. For the children who accompanied their parents, there was an extra delight—a free sucker handed out with a warm smile.
Despite the grit and grease of his profession, Pendleton and his staff always dressed in ties, a small but powerful statement of dignity and professionalism. But his station was more than just a business—it was a hub of community connection. On Monday mornings, Monroe’s clergy gathered in a special back room for free coffee and donuts, discussing their sermons and church activities from the day before.
A Leader in Civic and Civil Rights Circles
Pendleton wasn’t just a businessman—he was a leader in Monroe’s civic and civil rights movement. As a member of the Negro Chamber of Commerce, he actively supported the NAACP and other organizations fighting for equality. His service station became a quiet yet vital space where discussions about Black progress and justice often took place.
He was also a confidant and supporter of Mayor W.L. Howard, positioning himself at the crossroads of business and local politics, ensuring the needs of Monroe’s Black residents were heard.
Faith and Generosity
Pendleton’s generosity extended beyond his business. As a deacon at Zion Traveler Baptist Church, he lived by the principles of service and faith. He allowed trusted customers to purchase gas and services on credit, letting them simply sign the book—a rare gesture of trust in a time when financial security was uncertain for many Black families.
A Legacy That Lasts
Joe Pendleton’s impact on Monroe was more than economic; it was cultural, spiritual, and deeply personal. He proved that a gas station could be more than a business—it could be a place of fellowship, service, and upliftment. His commitment to community, dignity, and faith made him a legend in his time, and his legacy still inspires those who remember the man in the tie, handing out suckers and checking oil with a heart full of service.
Honoring His Memory
Today, as Monroe continues to grow and change, Joe Pendleton’s story remains a testament to the power of Black enterprise, leadership, and faith. His station may be gone, but his impact on Monroe’s history will never fade.
