During World War II, the Gateway was a major stop-off for many servicemen and women traveling to Maryland, Virginia, the Carolinas, and westward. Its location near the turnpike interchange in Breezewood and along Lincoln Highway also drew motorists heading to somewhere. While the Snyder family owned the Gateway Inn and rest area, the inn held a contract to supply fuel to military convoys and became known for a bartering system in which the family traded meals, gasoline, and rest to service members for Military Service Insignia Patches. The accumulated patch collection is displayed inside the inn.