It was announced today that the historic Soulsby Station in Mount Olive, Ill., was awarded a $10,000 cost-share grant from the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program for its continued restoration. The station was built in 1926 by Henry Soulsby, the same year Route 66 was designated. The station was operated by the family until its … Continue reading Soulsby Station awarded cost-share grant
Category: Businesses
‘That’s a really good sandwich’
A couple of fellows hear about a sandwich-maker at the historic Star Cash Grocery on old Route 66 in Commerce, Okla., who's been there for 66 years. The two decide to hit to road to order one. They came away impressed. Note: There also are really good hand-made sandwiches at Eisler Bros. Store in Riverton, … Continue reading ‘That’s a really good sandwich’
That tears it
We've heard for many months about Route 66 travelers being treated rudely by the proprietors of Indian Harvest Trading Post, near Sullivan, Mo. We did a story about this. Theft had been a problem, so it was understandable why the owners felt the need to vigilant. Nevertheless, we implored the owners to be more hospitable. … Continue reading That tears it
Hackberry will get new fire station
The Kingman (Ariz.) Daily Miner reports that the small Route 66 town of Hackberry, Ariz., will be getting a new fire station, with the help of a longtime Route 66 business: The new station and engine will also benefit travelers along the Route 66 corridor and will respond to fire and other incidents in Valentine, … Continue reading Hackberry will get new fire station
History of the Yellowhorse empire
New American Media has an exceptional story about the history of the Yellowhorse Indian trading posts along the Arizona-New Mexico border on Route 66. It's a story of bootlegging, bamboozlement and good old-fashioned gimmickry to make a buck. And those stores are still going strong.
Castle Car Wash building placed on watch list
Landmarks Illinois today placed the John J. Murphy Filling Station, aka Castle Car Wash, on its 2008-2009 Chicagoland Watchlist of endangered historic properties. Twelve other properties in the Chicago area were listed. It is hoped the publicity will spur efforts to preserve the structures. The stone, castle-like station, on Route 66 at 3801 W. Odgen … Continue reading Castle Car Wash building placed on watch list
Berwyn tavern reopens after face-lift
Tiger O'Stylies, a tavern on Route 66 in Berwyn, Ill., has reopened after a $25,000 renovation, reports Suburban Life. With about $9,000 in help from the Berwyn Development Corp., owner Tiger Hiller has seen his nightclub turn into a popular spot: The BDC made the move to support Tiger O’Stylies’ renovation — with the City … Continue reading Berwyn tavern reopens after face-lift
The nighttime glow of Gay Parita
Gary Turner's faithful reproduction of the former Gay Parita gas station on old Route 66 in Paris Springs, Mo., recently had architectural neon lighting added. The lighting was installed free by Vernon Boyce, owner of Missouri Neon Co. of nearby Springfield, Mo. The company has been around since the 1940s and has installed neon lighting … Continue reading The nighttime glow of Gay Parita
Governor pledges more projects for Tucumcari
The city of Tucumcari made a strong bid but failed last month to gain a license for a casino and horse-racing track. But apparently the effort has created some positive side effects. Local officials who made a bid for the "racino" license met with Gov. Bill Richardson, and he pledged to bring future economic development … Continue reading Governor pledges more projects for Tucumcari
Animal Paradise’s future plans
Animal Paradise, a drive-through exotic animal park off Route 66 near Strafford, Mo., was taken over by a corporation earlier this year. KSPR-TV in Springfield, Mo., talked to the park's operators about future plans: “Black bears will be the next thing to come in,” said owner Jim Meikle. Exotic Animal Paradise is also planning to … Continue reading Animal Paradise’s future plans