This archival news footage from Northeast Historic Film shows scenes of gas stations during the 1979 oil crisis. When operating, the gas stations faced long lines of cars that one customer suggested stretched about a half-mile long. When the stations were closed, signs in front reflected the country’s supply shortage at the time—for example, “Our pumps are closed” and “No gas.” A station owner explains that regulating hours of operation was necessary to keep stations open throughout the month. An attendant blames “the papers” for causing customers to panic.

This video is primary source footage and has not been extensively edited.