Welcome to the strange land of Vernon CA

In June of 2004, driving south through Los Angeles I stopped for gas and a restroom break at the next available exit. By chance this brought me to Vernon CA. A surreal zone of factories and streets, but seemingly without people (outside anyway), houses, trees, or anything that was non-industrial. When I found a gas station, it appeared to be a ghost of one. It had an old pump with actual turning dials, and it was stuck on a price from way back in time. I figured I had found an abandoned place.

O K Fuel Stop
4175 District Blvd Los Angeles, CA Phone: (323) 581-4806

Just to be sure I pulled my car right up to the door and saw signs of life. Two old guys watching a little TV set on the counter. I verfied they had gas, and took credit cards. Then found a restroom. No other customers showed up while I was there.

Its hard for me to accurately describe the eeriness I felt in Vernon. But it struck me as unique and very strange to find a place like this so close to the center of LA. I was fascinated. Were there any people living in this city? Any restaurants? Any bars? I was about to find out.