For nearly 90 years, the Odeon Theatre in Tucumcari, New Mexico, has welcomed local moviegoers and Route 66 travelers.
Thanks to a collaborative effort, that theater’s neon is again lighting the streets of downtown Tucumcari. The restoration of the Odeon’s historic neon sign was made possible through a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, recognizing the theatre’s historic significance and the importance of preserving the neon culture that has long defined Route 66.
Throughout the restoration, Odeon owner Jose “DJ Lalo” Almeida worked side-by-side with New Mexico Route 66 Alliance chief preservation officer Johnnie Meier, learning the skills required to restore historic neon. From troubleshooting electrical systems and fabricating neon tube patterns to rewiring high-voltage components and installing new glass tubing, the project became a living classroom dedicated to preserving an increasingly rare craft.
Bruce Shaffer and Craig Cropsey of the Alliance also participated in the restoration, gaining hands-on experience as members of the organization’s preservation Team.
The Alliance stated in a news release that it anticipates taking on additional neon restoration projects in Tucumcari and along New Mexico’s Route 66 corridor, ensuring the knowledge and craftsmanship required to restore these signs continues to grow.
“Route 66 is a vibrant corridor of history, but it is also part of our future. The National Trust for Historic Preservation is pleased to be part of this neon restoration project, which returns a historic landmark to its former glory. It also ensures that the Odeon Theater, which celebrates 90 years this year, stays relevant and will continue to provide a community gathering spot that will inspire the next generation to think big and work together,” said Rhys Martin, manager of the National Trust’s Preserve Route 66 Initiative.
For Almeida, seeing the sign illuminated again represents both an accomplishment and an investment in Tucumcari’s future.
“I am incredibly happy to see the neon restored and shining again,” he said. “This project was more than just a repair — it was a valuable learning experience in the art of restoring historic neon signs. The knowledge and skills I gained are something I will carry with me for years to come. My hope is that I can use what I’ve learned to help preserve more of Tucumcari’s iconic neon, assist local business owners with repairs and restoration, and even share these techniques with others who want to keep our city’s Route 66 heritage glowing for future generations.”
(Courtesy image of the restored neon at the Odeon Theatre in Tucumcari, New Mexico)