Salem Stub Gas Station closes after decades of service

SALEM — After more than half a century as a community mainstay, the Salem Stub gas station, located along Highway 218, officially closed its doors Saturday, April 5 at 9 p.m.

Jet Gas Corporation President Larry Bentler confirmed the closure, citing changes in company direction.

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“The store has been a staple for many individuals in the area since the 1950s,” Bentler said. “However, the investments to upgrade to meet current regulations, coupled with the region’s highly competitive gas pricing, this location at the current capacity no longer aligns with the company operations.”

The station, known locally as “The Stub,” was more than just a gas stop. It served generations of families and travelers, becoming a cherished part of the Salem community.

“Sorry to hear this news,” said Joel Garretson, Chair of the Henry County Historic Preservation Commission. “Ralph and Velda White built the first gas station at the stub in the spring of 1930, branded as a Sinclair station. Ralph worked for the construction company that paved Hwy 218 in 1929 and saw an opportunity for selling gasoline, oil, pop, candy bars, cigars and cigarettes. It served as a place to hang out for local farmers and was affectionately nicknamed Thugville when I was a kid when Raymond Traut owned it. A long 95-year history.”

Many residents expressed disappointment, especially those with strong personal ties to the station.

“We’ve been taking our kids there for breakfast every weekend since they were babies,” said Brandy Miller Myers.

With the closure, some community members have voiced concerns about the availability of diesel in the area, now needing to travel to Mt. Pleasant, West Point, Donnellson, or Denmark for fuel.

Jet Gas Corporation, which operates convenience stores in New London, West Point, Houghton, and Bonaparte, among others, announced that the Salem Stub property may be repurposed.

“We anticipate finding an alternative use for the Salem Stub location,” Jet Gas stated in its announcement.

The closure comes alongside a major change in company leadership. Jet Gas has announced the upcoming sale of 10 convenience store locations to Brooke Lilley, a longtime employee and current Chief Operating Officer.

“Larry Bentler, president of Jet Gas Corporation and owner of multiple connected companies, is proud to announce the sale of 10 convenience stores to long-term employee and current COO, Brooke Lilley,” the company said in a statement. “As a local and valued leader in the operations of the business … we anticipate the company will continue to place the utmost value in our customers and employees.”

Bentler expressed full confidence in Lilley and her husband, Clayton, as the new owners.

“I’m extremely pleased to allow her the chance to grow this business with her husband, Clayton,” he said. “She will be very successful in my humble opinion.”

Jet Gas Corp, Jet Transport, Jet Tankwagon, and B&B Propane will remain under Bentler’s ownership. Lilley will operate as a supplied dealer to the existing product brands. The transfer of store ownership is expected to be finalized by late summer, following a phased rollout of E15 fuel at remaining locations.

“We truly appreciate all of our customers over the last 60 plus years and hope they continue to support this young couple in their new endeavor,” Bentler added.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com