By Douglas Towne: Peter Richards, 80, recently passed away at his home in Maine. He was described in his obituary as a “lifelong, beloved teacher, an enthusiastic prankster, and a creative, generous soul who counted ‘prospecting for gold in Greenland’ and ‘playing banjo for an X-rated movie soundtrack’ among his favorite odd achievements.” In Peter’s final months, he gave the SCA one last gift.
By Frank Brusca: The SCA vintage image database has just grown by 1,000 images with the addition of the Peter Richards Roadside Collection. Collected over a lifetime, the Richards Collection complements the Jim Seelen Motel Images Collection. Feel free to dig in. But beware, you might just get lost in nostalgia trip.
The Great American RETRO Road Trip: A Celebration of Roadside Americana
By Rolando Pujol
Artisan Publishers, 2025
Hardcover, 320, $35
Reviewed by Heather David
WANDERLUST. I have it. Chances are, you do too. Every place has a story to tell, and this narrative can be experienced through its history, cultural artifacts, and customs. Rolando Pujol’s new book, The Great American RETRO Road Trip, is a tome that is sure to help satisfy your wanderlust. In what once seemed like an impossible task to me, Pujol has produced an encyclopedia of “Roadside Americana,” one book that covers hundreds of unique attractions across the country, from coast to coast.