The distinctive neon sign for the Silver Spur Motel along Route 66 in Amarillo was removed last week.
It will be at least partially restored, but it won’t be going back up at the property because it has new owners.
James Benson, an apparent sign collector based on his Facebook account, posted photos of the sign being taken down and in his possession:
Benson also cross-posted his images of the Silver Spur on the Neon International Group on Facebook.
He stated in the comment thread that the motel landed new owners, hence the sign’s availability. According to Potter County property records, Jess Harman of Amarillo recently acquired the property.
He also said he would leave the rusty patina on one side, but restore the other. Neon tubing will also be replaced.
Benson stated on Facebook Messenger to Route 66 News that he has received interest in the sign from museums in McLean and Vega in Texas.
Gary Daggett, president of the Texas Old Route 66 Association, lamented the news of the sign’s departure.
A fire damaged the motel at 4011 E. Amarillo Blvd. (aka Route 66) in 2018. Google lists the business as “temporarily closed.”
Online sources indicate the motel opened in 1952.
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