Folks in Sayre, Oklahoma, are helping the owners of the Western Motel raise money to restore its long-dark neon sign.
The Oklahoma Route 66 Association reports that Chetan “Charley” Patel and his wife Chhaya, who have owned the Route 66 motel for over 15 years, applied for and were awarded about an $18,000 Neon Sign Grant from the association in 2024, which would cover about half the cost.
Sayre residents launched a GoFundMe online campaign, with a goal of $10,000.
Residents also are setting up booths at festivals to help get the rest of the money.
Once restored, it would be the first time the sign has lighted in decades.
“The Patel family has been an active part of the Sayre community for many years,” said Kay Allen. “They are so proud of their motel and committed to the Route 66 experience. Charley is determined to restore the sign.”
“Neon is a big part of the Route 66 experience,” said Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association. “Especially when you’re nearing the end of your day, you’re probably a little tired…and then you see that bright, beautiful beacon of glowing neon. It’s telling you that you’ve arrived home…for a night, anyway. We’re really excited to see this landmark restored to its original glory as it will give travelers one more reason to linger longer in Oklahoma.”
Ollie and Ruby Elliott opened the Western Motel, including its neon sign, in 1959.
(Image of the Western Motel and its sign in Sayre, Oklahoma, by amy_buthod via Flickr)
I wanted to make a donation to the sign restoration project for the Western, but couldn’t find it on GoFundMe’s site. How about providing a hot link in the story to make it easier on donors??
Folo up….please disregard my privious comment. I now see the link. I hadn’t scrolled down far enough!
That place is a DUMP. Help them buy a mop!