Reflections on a Lifetime at Tenerife’s Historic Petrol Station

Juan Peña, now enjoying retirement, reflects on his long career at his family’s petrol station in Tenerife, a place that has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century.

A Legacy of Service

At 75 years old, Juan Peña recently celebrated his birthday with a sugar-free cake, a necessity due to his diabetes. The cake featured decorations that highlighted his cherished interests, including his beloved dog Zorro and a pitaya tree, which has captured his fascination over the years.

Peña’s connection to the petrol station runs deep, as it was established by his grandfather, also named Juan Peña, in April 1926. This service station, known as the Barranco Hondo service station, holds the distinction of being the oldest in Tenerife. For generations, it has served not just as a place to refuel vehicles but as a gathering spot for locals, fostering a sense of community.

In its early days, the station operated with a simple setup, featuring an underground tank, a pump, and two dispensers—one for petrol and a smaller one for diesel. Peña recalls the physical demands of the job, stating, “I developed muscles because when the drum ran out, I had to lower the pump inside until it was all gone.” For 27 years, he dedicated himself to the station, which became a vital part of the Barranco Hondo community.

Before the construction of the southern motorway in the 1970s, the petrol station served as a crucial stop along the route between Santa Cruz and Güímar, making it a mandatory stop for travelers. Alongside the petrol station, the family bar across the street also thrived, as many customers would stop for a meal before refueling. This dual service not only provided convenience but also created a welcoming atmosphere for those passing through.

More Than Just Fuel

Initially, Peña pursued a career in teaching but soon shifted his focus to the family business after his father posed a pivotal question: “Why do you need to work there when you have the petrol station next to your house?” This question marked the beginning of his long tenure at the station, where he found his true calling. Over the years, he became an integral part of the daily lives of the locals, offering not just fuel but also a friendly smile and a listening ear.

Throughout his career, Peña acquired a wide range of skills, from changing tires to checking spark plugs and replacing oils. The services offered at the station expanded significantly, leading him to hire additional staff to manage the increasing workload. This growth allowed the station to adapt to the evolving needs of the community, ensuring that it remained a reliable resource for motorists.

Despite the growth, Peña emphasizes that the petrol station remained a small, family-run establishment that played an essential role in the community. He believes he has provided a valuable public service to both the municipality of Candelaria and the residents of Barranco Hondo. His commitment to quality service and community engagement has left a lasting impact on those who frequented the station.

After two decades of physically demanding work, Peña faced health challenges, including a pinched vertebra that required surgery. Although he returned to work post-surgery, he could no longer perform the heavier tasks and focused primarily on fuel provision. His daughter, Nuria, reflects on their journey, stating, “The petrol station has given him all the good things he has, but also all the bad.” This sentiment captures the dual nature of their family business, which has been a source of pride and challenge alike.

As he looks back on his career, Peña expresses gratitude for the relationships he built and the lessons learned along the way. The petrol station was not just a place of work; it was a hub of memories, laughter, and community spirit. He fondly recalls the stories shared by customers, the friendships forged, and the sense of belonging that permeated the air. Each interaction contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that defined his life’s work.

Key points

• Juan Peña recently retired from the family petrol station he worked at for 27 years.
• He celebrated his 75th birthday with a sugar-free cake, reflecting his health needs.
• The Barranco Hondo service station, opened by his grandfather in 1926, is the oldest in Tenerife.
• The station was a crucial stop before the southern motorway was built in the 1970s.
• Peña expanded his skills over the years, offering more than just fuel at the station.
• Health issues led him to reduce his workload, focusing on essential tasks.
• The petrol station served as a community hub, fostering relationships and local engagement.
• Peña’s journey reflects both the rewards and challenges of running a family business.