This old photo is in our local town historical society. Actual photo is much larger showing the name of the town drug store in late 1880's- early 1900's. What really puzzles me is the sign outside the storefront that says "76 Gas". What could this possibly mean? If there were autos in that little town way back then, I would be highly surprised. If so, that surely would not be the price. And we know that Union 76 Gas was not around this area of Western Pa. Anyone have any good guesses?

I see a P H behind that sign,might be PHILLIPS behind there.
Phillips 66 company bought out Union oil Co,which marketed '76 Gasoline.When?,I don't know.
Could this have been taken as that buy out had just taken place,thus a Phillips station now advertising Unions 76 gasoline?..Or did that PH just stand for PHARMACY?

My guess would be the '76 Gasoline' grade/brand of Waverly Oil out of Pittsburgh...

I've seen some pics with Waverly advertising along with the gasoline, but couldn't locate them. I did find this postcard of downtown Mercer, PA, with 76 advertising...

Gilmore, now that makes sense. Our town is about 25 miles from Mercer on the same U.S. Route 19. Thanks.

Cold Pizza, the PH was the beginning of the word PHARMACY. This shows up in other photos. Thanks!