The new owners of Henry’s Rabbit Ranch in Staunton, Illinois, announced they will have several of the late owner’s pet rabbits at a Holiday Market on Nov. 21.
“Some of Rich Henry’s beloved rabbits, including Big Red, Little Red, and several others, will be making a special appearance!” the business stated in a Facebook post.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome these familiar furry faces back to the Ranch!”
The event at 1107 Historic Old Route 66 will be from noon to 4 p.m.
Longtime owner Rich Henry once owned dozens of pet rabbits at his Route 66 business. He trained a few of them to do tricks for tourists:
Henry owned his Henry’s Rabbit Ranch for about 30 years. The business, which doubled as an insurance and tag agency, was inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2012.
He died at age 77 two years ago.
Earlier this year, Melissa Quinones, her husband Luis Quinones and her brother Mike Bellovich purchased the property.
Melissa and Mike grew up in Staunton, and they couldn’t bear the thought of the Route 66 landmark being torn down.
The reborn Henry’s Rabbit Ranch held a soft reopening in late October.
The Holiday Market will also include Soul Smitten Photography, which will offer its photos for just a donation. Henry’s Rabbit Ranch will match those donations to help needy families during the Christmas season.
Santa Claus will make an appearance. The event will also feature an indoor holiday vendor market and a gift shop with Christmas gifts.