
"Washington Virginia Motor Co. interior." Circa 1918-1926. View full size. National Photo Company Collection glass negative, Library of Congress.
There are several of these heaters in my great-grandparents' farmhouse (which happens to be right across the road from my place) and at least one in my place.
That's a gas heater with ceramic grid. My grandparents had one in their fake fireplace.

For me, it's the fact that I bet they kept their sweaters on during the winter. Big area for a little space heater.
Also, how long has it been since you've seen a modern parts department that clean and organized?
For some reason, my favorite part of this photo is over there on the end of the bench, the packaging department with the fan scale, the big roll of wrapping paper and the cone of twine. I guess this goes along with my fascination with modular filing units, stationery supplies and office accessories: I'm a support services fanboy.

Now that's what I call a no-frills light fixture. It's a good thing they have the fire extinguisher nearby.