Old AA Call box
These characteristic black and yellow buildings were once "the lighthouses of the road." (1) In times past, motoring enthusiasts relied upon them for directions, breakdown help, and support throughout their travels. Individually numbered, each AA call box had its own sentry and well-documented location. At first, these buildings were intended as shelters for road patrols. Over time, they came to be used by AA members. A stranded motorist had nothing more to do than call and give the number of the kiosk, and help was on the way. The easily recognized logo meant that a traveller could find a light, maps, fire extinguisher, and many other items whenever they were needed. As technology progressed, telephones and other communication devices were added. Ironically, however, it was the further development of technology that eventually caused the AA sentry box to become obsolete. Shortly after the turn of the 20th century, the number of AA call boxes had shrunk from over 1,000 to a mere 21. By 2010, there were even fewer. Not even one of them had been in use for years. Many were in dire need of repair or relocation.
Size: 4000px × 6000px
Location: Mountsorrel Loughborough Leicestershire
Photo credit: © Chris Walls / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
Keywords: assist, association, automobile, badge, breakdown, britain, british, call, classic, club, editorial, emblem, emergency, england, iconic, information, logotype, motor, motoring, phone, rare, rescue, telephone, transport, vintage, western
