Route 66 Podcast

Phil Gordon has a unique hobby related to Route 66.  As an engineer, he's very careful not to let even his closest acquaintances know that he is passionate about collecting historic Route 66 matchcovers.  With a collection beyond 5000 matchcovers, Phil has painstakingly scanned and uploaded his collection online to share with the world and Route 66 fans.   Join The Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he talks with Phil about one of the most unusual hobbies as a phillumenist.  Highlights include: Matchbook versus matchcover Collecting Does the absence of matches in a matchcover collection diminish the value? Earliest history of matches and matchbook advertising Most popular configurations of matchbooks Philuminist by definition Transition from collecting postcards to match covers The original 10 matchcovers in Phil's collection  The most coveted Route 66 matchcover: Peach Springs Garage What do people think of someone who has collected over 5,000 matchcovers? Developing an organized system for collecting and cataloging Route 66 matchcovers Motels and lodgings Cafes and restaurants Gas stations Trading Posts      Full length matchcovers designs Background knowledge needed for collecting matchcovers Ebay scammers selling matchcovers Current demand for matchbooks Rear striker versus front striker matchbooks design changes (1973) Back striker safety versus rear striker Discovering unknown Route 66 history through match cover collecting The ultimate Route 66 matchcover that Phil has spent 20+ years searching for Scherer's (estimated value $50)   The holy grail of matccovers outside of Route 66: Charles Lindbergh (estimated value several thousand)     The very first advertising: hand written matcbook covers First commercial matchbook ever printed Initial interest in posting matchovers online: Whiting brothers      Sharing matchcovers online with the whole world Step by step process for uploading matchcovers  Popularity of matchbooks today with the decline of smoking National organization of matchcover collectors The Route 66 Matchcover Collector - Search wide variety of Route 66 establishments for matchcovers   Phil's Route 66 Website:  Personal website containing both postcards and matchcovers  

The Devil's Rope (Barbed Wire) Museum along Route 66 in Mclean, TX, is probably one of the most unusual museums along The Mother Road. Join host Anthony Arno, as he talks with 90 year old curator Delbert Trew all about his museum and collection of over 800 different types of barbed wire.  Cited as one of the most important inventions during the Industrial Revolution, the museum features anything and everything related to barbed wire, including art, tools, medicines, books, and use during warfare. There are many interesting museums along Route 66, but perhaps one of the most interesting is the Devil's Rope Museum with its collection of over 800 examples of barbed wire.    Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Delbert Trew, the 90 year old curator of the Devil's Rope Museum in McLean, TX. Highlights from the show include:  Why visit a barbed wire museum?  McClean's “other” fame to claim- Alfred Rowe  McClean's Mayor Passenger # XXX on the Titanic  McLain's once popular Brassiere Factory  History of the American cowboy  What problem does barbed wire solve?  Origin of Devil's Rope name for barbed wire  Barbed Wire- Rancher or Farmer's best friend?  The most popular wire all visitors must see!  Barbed Wire: Tools, Medicine, Books, Art, Poetry, Wartime  Barbed Wire in song Modern versions of Barbed Wire  Delbert's initial interest in Barbed Wire  Books published by Delbert on Ranching, Barbed Wire, and other interests   Devil's Rope Museum featuring Route 66 memorabilia  Visiting Devil's Rope Museum  Other Route 66 attractions in McLean, TX 

The Route 66 Podcast pays a special tribute to Ramona Lehman, who passed away on August 2, 2023, at the age of 85 years old. This episode was originally released in 2021 as Ramona celebrated her 50th year operating the Munger Moss Motel.  Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Ramona about How does an Iowa farm girl wind up on Route 66? Honeymooning along Route 66 Early history of The Munger Moss Motel Origin of the Munger Moss Name Remembering her late husband, Bob Lehman Helping businesses along Route 66 get established The early days when Ramona arrived at The Munger Moss Discovering garages that were once part of the motel Ramona's room recommendation at The Munger Moss Long term residents at The Munger Moss The Munger Moss: To sell or not to sell? Will the children carry on the Munger Moss tradition? The world famous Munger Moss Neon sign Celebrating 50 years at The Munger Moss Most memorable guests to walk through the door Meeting the original owner many years later – Emmitt Moss Maintaining the Munger Moss sign Constant flow of picture takers along Route 66 Most popular Munger Moss items for sale in the lobby Bob Lehman's prized toy collection The biggest challenge in 50 years at The Munger Moss The very first in-ground pool in Lebanon, Missouri arrives at The Munger Moss Ramona's last vacation Preserving Route 66 for future generations Is Ramona as famous locally as she is with Route 66 travelers? Ramona's Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren visiting at The Munger Moss Sales pitch for The Munger Moss 2021 Next item on Ramona's Bucket list A Ramona Lehman Revelation: Where hasn't she been along Route 66?  (The answer WILL surprise you!) Long Live Route 66  

The Rancho Cucamonga Service Station in California opened for business in 1915, eleven years before the birth of Route 66.  The station itself was established prior to the westward migration of travelers and automobiles, but did play an important role in supporting the citrus growers in the region with much needed fuel to support heaters throughout the orchids. Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Anthony Gonzales, President of the Inland Empire California (IECA) and how the local community worked together to restore the only period service station along Route 66 in California. Highlights from. the show include: Origin of Rancho Cucamonga name Early history of Service Station before Route 66 and automobiles Architect John Klusman and other popular buildings in the area Building design The popularity of Ridgefield Oil Company to later become part of ARCO Origin of Ridgefield sign atop of service station From peak years to eventual demise How a billboard company (Lamar Advertising) agrees to support a Route 66 interest with just one condition IECA established to preserve the station How Anthony Gonzales became interested Unexpected surprises upon turning the key to an abandoned gas station Service station artifacts and future plans Impressive awards as a result of the restoration progress Annual Car Show Other area attractions along Route 66  

Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he talks with Sam Murray, the person behind Gilligan's Route 66 Tours.  Gilligan's specializes in providing international tourists a first-class 23 day experience along Route 66, including driving in convertible Ford Mustang's and stays at some of the most iconic Route 66 motels. Features include Sam Murray talking about Growing up in New Zealand and his earliest road trips First trip to the US as a youngster Buying an RV and touring Route 66 Origin of Gilligan name for tour company Life as a MX Rally Racer    

The Joliet Prison, in Joliet IL, is one of the oldest prisons in the United States that housed both criminals and enemies from the Civil War.  Popularized by the popular movie, The Blues Brothers, the Joliet Prison permanently closed in 2002 and began drawing national attention about the possibility of being operated as a tourist destination along Route 66. Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he talks with Greg Peerbolte, Chief Executive Officer of the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site.  Together, they talk about the entire 144 year operational history of the prison, including the on the following topics: Early history and construction during the Civil War William Boyington - noted Chicago architect Daily life at Joliet Prison Special holidays at Joliet Prison Joliet Prison as a manufacturing center  Popular wardens at Joliet Prison Did Chicken Joe Campbell really murder the warden's wife? Ida B. Wells, Civil Rights advocate and founder of the NAACP,  visits Joliet in support for Campbell's fair trial Notorious inmates at Joliet through the years 1 year sentence at Joliet for stealing the body of President Lincoln Prison tourism Attempted escapes at Joliet The most unusual inmate who tried to break into Joliet Turning the ruins of Joliet into art The Blues Brothers at Joliet Female inmates

The latest episode features the release of the book, ABC, What Do You See?  Rolling Along Route 66 with author Annette Murray and illustrator Joyce Cole.   Don't mistake this book as a simple picture book for pre-schoolers!  ABC, What Do You See?  Rolling Along Route 66 is full of whimsical illustrations and lyrical language, having true appeal for both young and old fans of Route 66.  The book is educational, introducing readers to geography, art, architecture, weather, wildlife and many other wonders waiting to be discovered on the 2,448-mile highway. Highlights include: Earliest memory of Route 66 Joyce's role with the Route 66 Passport Annette's teaching career and early love of reading Origin of ABC, What Do You See? Rolling Along Route 66 and how the author and illustrator met Annette reads from her favorite page Joyce shares her favorite illustrations The planning phase during a worldwide pandemic Writing a Children's book versus and Adult book Writing Challenges in relating Route 66 in ABC order instead of traveling from Chicago to Santa Monica The challenging letters along Route 66: Q, X, and Z Are there any stops in the book that would be new for the typical Route 66 fan? Settling on a cover image for ABC Book Sequence of book drafts before being finalized for printing The book publishing process When Annette and Joyce met for the very first time Promotional game plan for ABC Book Book publishing challenges and rewards Annette's family connection to Tulsa Mayor Visiting Route 66 Visitors Museum & Gift Shop in Pontiac     Website: authorannettemurray.com  

A 3-part interview, featuring the popular U-Drop Inn (Conoco Tower Station), a 1936 service station and café constructed in 1936 with a very unique art deco style for the Texas panhandle region. The architectural style of the U-Drop Inn would later serve as an inspiration for Romone's automotive body and paint shop in the animated Cars movie. Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he speaks with Crystal Hermesmeyer (Shamrock EDC Director), 87 year old Hazel Jannsen (U-Drop Inn ambassador), and Baldo de Leon (U-Drop Inn café entrepreneur).  Featured highlights: Crystal Hermesmeyer (Shamrock EDC Director) Early history of Shamrock, TX Local attractions: Blarney Stone, Water Tower, US Hwy 83 U-Drop Inn name origin Newspaper Account: Name selected for Highway Cafe Architectural style of U-Drop Inn Newspaper Account: Much Praise to Shamrock Architect    Pixar visits U-drop Inn and inspires Cars movie Local appreciation of the U-Drop Inn Chamber Office resources for Route 66 traveler   Hazel Jannsen (U-Drop Inn Ambassador) What has made Hazel so popular with Route 66 travelers? Earliest memory of Route 66 Origin of Huggin' Hazel nickname Professional career – reflecting back U-Drop Inn hires Hazel as an ambassador What is so special about U-Drop Inn? Shamrock Information Center at the U-Drop Inn A typical day at the U-Drop Inn for Hazel What's next on Hazel's bucket list? Newspaper Account: U-Drop Inn to Offer Public Finest in Foods and 24 hour Service   Baldo de Leon (U-Drop Inn café entrepreneur) Moving to Shamrock as a child and parents opening a local restaurant Full circle moment: Parents passed on U-Drop Inn Café opportunity 25 years earlier Early history of Café and Elvis association Newspaper Account: That's an Awful lot of Coffee, Mr. Nunn Café Inventory upon arrival First walk through behind the counter and kitchen area Updating the café menu The infamous Elvis Booth and San Dollar Motel on ‘66 Earliest conversations about revitalizing the café and ideas Opening Day memories Most popular item on the menu You don't know what you don't know in operation the café Understanding the Route 66 community

  Our latest episode features a talk with the Route 66 Podcast Scholarship winners!  A very special thanks to everyone who participated including the Patreon members, those who helped promote the program, and applicants who submitted entries. At the middle school level, the winning entry was submitted by a former virtual student of mine, Kiera.   Kiera's design (pictured above) includes the outline of a shield containing four Route 66 related images inside.  Kiera says that she spent few weeks working on the shield and her first step was listening to past episodes of the podcast for ideas.   It was during her research Kiera discovered the Wigwam Motel completely on her own, as the podcast has not yet featured the iconic motel on the show.   At the college level, Deanna DeValve was selected to receive a $1000 college scholarship.  Deanna is from Catoosa, Oklahoma, which is home of the Blue Whale along Route 66.   In addition to attending Oral Roberts University Deanna works part time at the Route 66 Native Arts Alliance in Catoosa.  Deanna submitted an original song, Remember, and was able to connect her Cherokee heritage in music and words with the verse below:   My native blood calls out to me Don't forget your history I listen to the beckoning And follow where she takes me REMEMBER   Other submissions include original and digital artwork, a radio broadcast featuring an interview with Bob "Crocodile" LIle, and an introduction of Missouri Route 66 using American Sign Language (ASL).  The scholarship program began in 2020 and this past year was extended to include an award at the college level.  While the submissions were very diverse, it is my hope that even more students will submit an entry for the 2022 - 2023 academic year once the program opens up.   The overall goal of the scholarship program is to promote the spirit of Route 66 with a younger generation of students who were born long after the highway was decommissioned.  I want to thank everyone who helped promote the scholarship program, including many of the local school districts and colleges along the route.       PATREON SUPPORTERS As always, thank you to my Patreon supporters who are the ones providing support for the scholarship program.  Patreon supporters for The Route 66 Podcast include: MidPoint Cafe Adrian, TX – Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jack Rabbit Trading Post Joseph City, AZ – Probably one of the most iconic curio shops along Route 66, the famous Here It Is billboard and fiberglass jackrabbit in front of the store is reason enough to stop…. and say hello to Cindy and Antonio. Jeff Buechel - Illinois  Reed Cole - Nebraska  Jim Crabtree – California  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel.  Kristin Haakenson – Washington  Rich Havlik – Minnesota  Maureen Holt - Arizona Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania  Evan Stern - New York  United Kingdom Charli Beeton  The Netherlands Jim Rensen  Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.  Patreon members at the Will Rogers level received a 2022 Route 66 wall calendar.  

There are a few documentaries featuring Route 66, and two of the most popular ones were produced by Katrina Parks.  Parks produced The Harvey Girls: Opportunity Bound in 2014 and her latest release features Route 66: The Untold Story of Women on The Mother Road. Join Anthony Arno as he talks with Parks about her career as a documentary filmmaker, from her first project as a college student to her upcoming projects. Developing an interest in storytelling How a college assignment led Katrina into filming her first documentary, Wrappings Wrappings wins an award through the United Nations Documentary vs. typical Hollywood movies Early work with History Channel A Summer in Vietnam Importance of Research Use of actors in documentaries Past and Future Podcasting Projects Route 66 Documentaries: Fred Harvey & Women of The Mother Road Behind the scenes in preparing a documentary The "Katrina Parks" rule in producing documentaries Recollecting Katrina's first exposure to Route 66 What comes first: Website or Documentary? Women of The Mother Road themes:   Archeology & Anthropology Boosters & Travelers Creatives Entrepreneurs Family & Business Politicians Waitresses & School Teachers Wartime   Website: Route 66 Women Website: Route 66 Women Facebook Page Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters! MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX - Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Joseph City, AZ - Probably one of the most iconic curio shops along Route 66, the famous Here It Is billboard and fiberglass jackrabbit in front of the store is reason enough to stop.... and say hello to Cindy and Antonio. Jeff Buschell, Illinois Jim Crabtree - California Route 66 author and photographer - Shellee Graham and also my guest on   Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson - Washington   Rich Havlik - Minnesota Mary Nicholson - Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer - Indiana Evan Stern - New York United Kingdom Charli Beeton The Netherlands Jim Rensen Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.  

In 1967 American entrepreneur and land developer Robert McCulloch proposed purchasing the 136 year old London Bridge on the River Thames from the city of London as a publicity stunt.  His goal was to attract potential land buyers to this remote region that today has a population of 50,000 residents and a wide range of recreational water activities.  Many people thought McCulloch was a bit of an oddball to spend almost $10 million to purchase and reconstruct the historical bridge10,000 miles away from its original construction site, but his hunch paid off.   The London Bridge is the second largest tourist attraction in Arizona, after the Grand Canyon, and not too far from Route 66. The episode features a talk with both McCulloch's grandson and a leading Lake Havasu tour guide, providing insight into the wisdom of McCulloch who earned an Engineering degree from Princeton University and was a millionaire by the age of 30. While the Lake Havasu London Bridge stood over the River Thames for 130 years, earlier versions of the bridge date back to Roman times and one iteration housed several hundred residents and featured a display of beheaded criminals to at the tollgates.   

In 1967 American entrepreneur and land developer Robert McCulloch proposed purchasing the 136 year old London Bridge on the River Thames from the city of London as a publicity stunt.  His goal was to attract potential land buyers to this remote region that today has a population of 50,000 residents and a wide range of recreational water activities.  Many people thought McCulloch was a bit of an oddball to spend almost $10 million to purchase and reconstruct the historical bridge10,000 miles away from its original construction site, but his hunch paid off.   The London Bridge is the second largest tourist attraction in Arizona, after the Grand Canyon, and not too far from Route 66.   Robert McCulloch  The episode features a talk with both McCulloch's grandson and a leading Lake Havasu tour guide, providing insight into the wisdom of McCulloch who earned an Engineering degree from Princeton University and was a millionaire by the age of 30. While the Lake Havasu London Bridge stood over the River Thames for 130 years, earlier versions of the bridge date back to Roman times and one iteration housed several hundred residents and featured a display of beheaded criminals to at the tollgates.   

Ramona Lehman is just as iconic as The Munger Moss Motel and recently celebrated 50 years as the owner and operator of this Missouri Route 66 must see stop along The Mother Road.     Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Ramona about How does an Iowa farm girl wind up on Route 66? Honeymooning along Route 66 Early history of The Munger Moss Motel Origin of the Munger Moss Name Remembering her late husband, Bob Lehman Helping businesses along Route 66 get established The early days when Ramona arrived at The Munger Moss Discovering garages that were once part of the motel Ramona's room recommendation at The Munger Moss Long term residents at The Munger Moss The Munger Moss: To sell or not to sell? Will the children carry on the Munger Moss tradition? The world famous Munger Moss Neon sign Celebrating 50 years at The Munger Moss Most memorable guests to walk through the door Meeting the original owner many years later – Emmitt Moss Maintaining the Munger Moss sign Constant flow of picture takers along Route 66 Most popular Munger Moss items for sale in the lobby Bob Lehman's prized toy collection The biggest challenge in 50 years at The Munger Moss The very first in-ground pool in Lebanon, Missouri arrives at The Munger Moss Ramona's last vacation Preserving Route 66 for future generations Is Ramona as famous locally as she is with Route 66 travelers? Ramona's Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren visiting at The Munger Moss Sales pitch for The Munger Moss 2021 Next item on Ramona's Bucket list A Ramona Lehman Revelation: Where hasn't she been along Route 66?  (The answer WILL surprise you!) Long Live Route 66 LINKS   Article: Ramona celebrates 50 years on Route 66 (2021)   Article: Bob and Ramona celebrate 45 years on Route 66  (2016) Website: Munger Moss Motel Facebook Page: Munger Moss Motel Video: Munger Moss featured on KYW News (2019) Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters! MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX – Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jack Rabbit Trading Post, Joseph City, AZ – Probably one of the most iconic curio shops along Route 66, the famous Here It Is billboard and fiberglass jackrabbit in front of the store is reason enough to stop…. and say hello to Cindy and Antonio. Jon B – Rhode Island Mary Beth Busutil – Florida Jim Crabtree – California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on   Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson – Washington   Rich Havlik – Minnesota Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania Wendy Raschke – Texas Brian Sawyer – Indiana Evan Stern – New York United Kingdom Charli Beeton The Netherlands Jim Rensen Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.   Patreon members receive access to an additional 10 minutes of this episode, featuring the following content: Long term residents and restrictions staying at The Munger Moss Joining the Rotary Club and Ramona's lucky streak Ramona takes up cactus growing Has the average guest heard of The Munger Moss? Norwegian Route 66 Members must travel the route in person to join their Association

During the early days of WWII, the Route 66 community of Miami welcomed over 2000 British Cadets as part of a training program to prepare pilots for combat over their homeland of England.   While most of these young cadets returned home to intense fighting and a country already ravaged by war, there were a few that never made it back home to their native soil. They were tragically killed while training in the states and have been forever laid to rest along Route 66 in the community of Miami, Oklahoma.   Laying these young men to rest on foreign soil attracted the attention of a local, Francis Mae Hill, who would over the next 40 years provide both flowers and prayers for these young men.  Mrs. Hill knew the family members would not be able to visit their loved ones, so she voluntarily tended to their graves and promised family members back home that they would not be forgotten.  She often considered the young men her boys, and her last wish was to be buried alongside her boys.  King George VI would later award Mrs. Hill The King's Award for Service. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Nancy Bro, office manager at the GAR Cemetery in Miami, OK, about the life of these cadets and other notables buried in Miami.  Highlights of the conversation include: SHOW NOTES Origin and network of GAR Cemeteries Cemetery Tourism as an upcoming industry The US agrees to a proposed program to train British in the US The Spartan Flying School Keeping the operation top secret in the early days A sudden influx of British men with funny accents gathering in Miami- what's going on? How a Route 66 community welcomes 2000 men with open arms British adjusting to American life while the war is raging back home The final count laid to rest: 15 Cadets and a local woman Kenneth Raisbeck: recreating the final flight of for the 70 year old son who he never met Annual Remembrance Ceremonies at GAR Origin of fatal accidents Col Gale Halverson The Candy Bomber Frantie "Francis" Mae Hill Mother of the boys buried in Oklahoma Why should we care for British soldiers laid to rest in the US? Honoring the British war dead in the states - justification and reasoning Everlasting relationships cadets formed with locals  Local museums honoring the RAF cadets Dobson Museum NE OK College, Oklahoma Other notables buried at GAR Cemetery Richard Kelton George Coleman Elvin and Lovell Mantle John Beaver Atha Cardin Charles Banks Wilson William Campbell Booger Red LINKS Website: GAR Cemetery, Miami, OK Dobson Museum Raisbeck Story and Flight   THE CANDY BOMBER: Colonel Gail “Hal” Halvorsen CHARLES BANKS WILSON: Documentary (Notable artist buried at GAR Cemetery) From the Ozarks and Beyond" Part 1 From the Ozarks and Beyond" Part 2 From the Ozarks and Beyond" Part 3 From the Ozarks and Beyond" Part 4 THE STEM CLASS PODCAST with Anthony Arno Dr. Frances Carter, a real life Rosie the Riveter   Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters! MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX - Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jon B - Rhode Island Mary Beth Busutil - Florida Jim Crabtree - California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer - Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson - Washington  Rich Havlik - Minnesota Mary Nicholson - Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer - Indiana United Kingdom Charli Beeton The Netherlands Jim Rensen Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.  Patreon members receive access to an additional 10 minutes of this episode, featuring the following content: Miami City takes over GAR Cemetery Miami Municipal Airport Bugles across America Additional fatalities at other Spartan Flying School locations Logistics for visiting the GAR Cemetery Personal Background for Nancy Child Remembrance Ceremony

Just before the birth of Route 66, the single worst incident of racial violence in American history took place in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  Within 24 hours, more than 35 square blocks in the Greenwood section of Tulsa were burned, causing 10,000 residents in one of the wealthiest black communities in America to instantly become homeless.  Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Dr. Scott Ellsworth, a leading expert on the Tulsa Race Massacre.  Topics include: Earliest knowledge of the Tulsa Race Massacre Urban legends and myths about the riots with stories about the 1921 riots Discovering a rare photograph that would spark an interest in further researching the riot A talk with a survivor who was 16 years at the time WD Williams provides a first hand account Origin of the Greenwood neighborhood Timeline of events beginning at the Drexel Building The Tulsa Tribune reports on the incident Lynch mob assembles outside the courthouse The one spark that caused the attack on Greenwood Race Riot or Race Massacre? Extreme lengths to cover up the events for years later The 3 remaining survivors today Search for mass graves Importance of President visiting Tulsa in 2021 to remember race riots Connecting with President Biden   CBS News featuring Scott Ellsworth UM Website: Scott Ellsworth Article: How a Historian Helped Tulsa Confront the Horror of Its Past Tulsa Memorial Park: Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation Documentary: Blood on Black Wall Street (The Legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre) Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters! MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX - Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jon B - Rhode Island Mary Beth Busutil - Florida Jim Crabtree - California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer - Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson - Washington  Rich Havlik - Minnesota Mary Nicholson - Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer - Indiana United Kingdom Charli Beeton The Netherlands Jim Rensen Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.  

WINSLOW: Standin' on the Corner Park   Popularized by the famous song, Take It Easy, one of the most famous street corners along Route 66 features a line from a popular song that was written by Jackson Browne.  Today, Winslow, Arizona, contains a small park on a corner of Route 66 featuring both a mural and bronze statue.  Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with both of the artists who have made the Winslow corner one of the most popular stops along Route 66. JOHN PUGH Early interest in art The art of Trompe-l'oeil (Trick the eye) Chico State Mural: Breaking through the Does an opitcal illusion always work Earliest memory of Route 66 The Winslow mural contest Basis of mural design competition 2004 fire Importance of research prior to planning a mural Life expectancy of murals What happens when a mural just ins't working? Murals that have really played trick on people Hermosa Beach mural honoring The Biltmore Hotel Era Bucket list items Standin on the Corner hints Website: Art of John Pugh   RON ADAMSON     Earliest interest in art Working at Montana lumber mills Making a living as an artist The Charlie Russell Art show entry sells for $1K Creating art Quick Draw First Bronze work: Indian bust Winslow calls for a statue Parameters for Winslow statue The final decision to award Ron the project A last minute adjustment to the prototype in front of the committee Earlier photograph of grandfather holding a guitar along Route 66 some 60 years earlier Does the statue represent anyone in particular? Constructing a homemade foundry to create the statue Last ditch efforts getting the statue to fit the foundation in Winslow Last minute setup in Winslow the day of the dedication ceremony Being an unknown artist with a really famous statue along Route 66 The day Don Henley showed up in Winslow Other work by Don Adamson Chain saw carving Earliest memories of Route 66   Historic Photo of Ron's Grandfather along Route 66 with Guitar Website: Ron Adamson YouTube: Home Footage of statue being created

Dan Rice operates one of the most famous Route 66 souvenir shops along Route 66, located on The Santa Monica Pier.  Dan is a past president of the California Route 66 Association and was instrumental in placing the famous End of the Trail sign on the Santa Monica Pier.   This is the final episode in a 3 part series featuring The Beginning, The Middle, and The End of Route 66. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Dan about: Earliest memory of Route 66 Background in Family Therapy Surviving a traumatic brain injury Selling American made Route 66 t-shirts Origin of End of the Trail sign Convincing Santa Monica Pier to erect a historical Route 66 sign Does Route 66 officially end on the Santa Monica Pier? Transitioning from a shop on wheels to a permanent shop on the Pier Early history of the Santa Monica Pier The 1939 Battle for Santa Monica Bay with mobster Tony Cornero Suggested sights for travelers arriving into Santa Monica Pier The Georgian Hotel Where is the original mobile vendor cart that Dan started his business with? The day Bobby Troup's daughter Cindy stopped at the shop President of California Route 66 Association Traveling the road today Similarities between Route 66 and Dan's life Website: 66 to Cali Facebook: 66 to Cali Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters! MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX – Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan's Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Jon B – Rhode Island Mary Beth Busutil – Florida Jim Crabtree – California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson – Washington  Rich Havlik – Minnesota Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer – Indiana And from the United Kingdom Charli Beeton Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program through Patreon.  This episodes Patreon supporters will have access to an additional 25 minutes of conversation with Dan, including Dan discussing: First road trip on Route 66 Publishing End of the Trail, an autobiography featuring the recovery from a near fatal car crash Business lessons learned while driving around Los Angeles International News covers the placing of the famous Route 66 sign on the Pier Suggestions for famous Route 66 attractions in California Suggestion for nearby budget accommodations Original hints of Route 66 in Los Angeles and current resurgence taking place in LA Celebrity customers visiting the shop Memorable everyday people to visit the shop Potential business opportunities along Route 66 Details about the progression of the California Route 66 Association Other popular stops along Route 66 in California Congratulations to this months Patreon winner, Kristin Haackenson,  from Washington, who has won a bag of Route 66 brand Santa Monica flavored snack mix.

This is the second part of a three part series, featuring the beginning, middle, and end of Route 66.   Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Brenda Bradley, owner of The Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, TX.  Cited as the midway point between Chicago and Santa Monica, The Midpoint Cafe sign outside is probably one of the most popular signs along the route that travelers will stop to take a picture of during their journey along Route 66. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Brenda about: Earliest memory of Route 66 Working as a waitress at The Midpoint Cafe and later purchasing the cafe One thing that Brenda wishes she knew before purchasing The Midpoint Cafe Welcome to Adrian, TX and nearby towns along Route 66 Early history of The Midpoint Cafe (Zellas’ 1928) References in Cars movie (V-8 Cafe) and previous owners Fran Houser, Dan Purschwitz Origin of Ugly Crust Pies Annual output of updated Ugly Crust Pies (Midpoint Ugly Pie) Most popular flavors of pie that Route 66 customers want The Midpoint Cafe Gift Shop and popular souvenir items A typical day at the cafe at the height of tourism season Most memorable visitors and repeat customers The moment of panic: when a tour bus pulls into the parking lot Seasonal Hours Most popular gift shop items that Route 66 travelers are purchasing The most popular sign outside the cafe window The lure of Route 66 Next on Brenda’s Bucket list   Facebook: The Midpoint Cafe Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters, including BUSINESS LEVEL MidPoint Cafe, Adrian, TX – Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan’s Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Mary Beth Busutil – Florida Jim Crabtree – California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson – Washington  Rich Havlik – Minnesota Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer – Indiana And from the United Kingdom Charli Beeton Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program. Congratulations to this months Patreon winner, Mary Nicholson,  from Pennsylvania, who has won a bag of Route 66 brand snack Sweet & Salty flavored snack mix.

BEGINNING OF ROUTE 66: Chicago with Windy City Road Warrior Dave Clark David Clark , operates Windy City Road Warrior and offers walking tours of Chicago along Route 66.  The first in a 3 part series features everything you need to know about starting (or ending) a Route 66 tour in Chicago, IL. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Dave about: Earliest memory of Route 66 Favorite spots along ’66 Importance of urban stretches along the road Early entry into tourism Where does the road begin in Chicago?  Tracking down the official beginning point Is there an end sign in Chicago? Must See Stops in Chicago Restaurants : The Berghoff Lou Mitchells The Castle Gas Station Buckingham Fountain Logistics of starting a Route 66 tour in Chicago Authentic Route 66 Hotels in Chicago The W-Hotel (formerly The Midland Hotel) The Club Quarters Hotel JW Marriott (former bank building) Hyatt Hotel (former Cook County Hospital building) Getting Chicagoans to embrace The Mother Road Traveling original alignments of 66 as you leave Chicago Alternate highways in Chicago Planning your first stops along Route 66 after departing Chicago Wilmington (Gemini Giant) Joliet Dwight Pontiac Lincoln Springfield Windy City Road Warrior Tours Website Monthly Zoom meetings Walking tours Published books Traveling by train along Route 66 in Illinois Value of repeat customers Importance of Route 66 WEBSITE: Windy City Road Warrior Facebook: Windy City Road Warrior     Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters, including BUSINESS LEVEL Mid Point Cafe, Adrian, TX – Featuring both their Ugly Crust Pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan’s Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Mary Beth Busutil – Florida Jim Crabtree – California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson – Washington  Rich Havlik – Minnesota Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer – Indiana And from the United Kingdom Charli Beeton Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program.  All supporters will receive an additional 15 minutes of conversation with David, where he talks about: Additional Chicago restaurants: Millers Pub Henry’s Drive In The best menu deals Additional Sites Castle Gas Station (Car Wash) Chicago Board of Trade Building Visiting non-Route 66 sites in Chicago Budget friendly Chicago Motels Ohio House Airport region hotels Early days of traveling and interest in Chicago Where are the vintage motels in Illinois? Past monthly Zoom Meetings featuring Route 66 Published book featuring Abraham Lincoln sites in Illinois Most interesting travelers along Route 66 Congratulations to this months Patreon winner, Charli Beeton,  from the United Kingdom, who has won a copy of The Road Crews Songs from The Mother Road CD.   For next month, one lucky Patreon winner will win a bag of Route 66 Chicago Sweet & Salty flavored snack mix.  

Bob Lile , otherwise known as “Croc” owns and operates Lile Art Gallery along 6th Avenue in historic Amarillo, Texas.  He’s known for creating Cadilite jewelry using paint chips from the nearby Cadillac Ranch Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Croc about: His earliest memory of Route 66 Singing in the church choir (and Croc sings a verse for our listeners!) Lifelong scouting role Early interest in painting Life as a car salesman at the family Ford dealership Opening an art gallery later in life Discovering “Cadillte” art made from Cadillac Ranch paint chips Origin of “Croc” nickname Importance of Route 66 Lile Art Gallery, Amarillo Facebook: Lile Art Gallery Article: Cadillac Ranch  Thank you to Route 66 Podcast & Scholarship supporters, including BUSINESS LEVEL Mid Point Cafe, Adrian, TX – Featuring both their ugly crust pie and one of the most popular photo ops along Route 66, located exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica in Adrian, Texas. Gilligan’s Route 66 Tours featuring tours of Route 66 in Ford Mustang convertibles, stays at historic Route 66 motels, and daily breakfast. Mary Beth Busutil – Florida Jim Crabtree – California Mike Fort  Route 66 author and photographer – Shellee Graham and also my guest on Episode # 10 where she talks about her book, Tales from the Coral Court Motel. Kristin Haakenson – Washington  Rich Havlik – Minnesota (Maureen Holt – Arizona) Mary Nicholson – Pennsylvania Brian Sawyer – Indiana And from the United Kingdom Charli Beeton Please consider supporting both The Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Program.  All supporters will receive an additional 15 minutes of conversation with Croc, where he talks about: Additional childhood memories, WW II, and Route 66 Experience as a college student Learning art from the earliest masters and traveling around the world studying technique Early days of selling Route 66 ads for a pubnlication and the first art gallery Some of the most prized possessions at Lile Art gallery The most memorable tourist he ever led along Route 66 Other Amarillo attractions Congratulations to this months Patreon winner, Brian Sawyer from Indiana, who has won a Route 66 wall calendar.  Congratulations Brian!  For next month, one lucky Patreon winner will win a copy of The Road Crews Songs from The Mother Road CD.  You can hear The Road Crew on Episode 14.

Roamin' Rich represents the latest generation of preservationists dedicated to promote and preserve Route 66.  He is the president of the Missouri Route 66 Association, a key member in the Painted Desert Trading Post cooperative, and the person behind most of the shields you see painted on the roadway. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Roamin' Rich about: His earliest memory of Route 66 The popular nickname Roamin' Rich His first act as a preservationaist Painting Route 66 shields on the road His largest shield ever placed to honor Gary Turner The infamous Chevy hood with Route 66 signatures The Missouri Route 66 Assocition Roamin' Rich and his YouTube channel The unknown fact about Route 66 Most cherished souvenier Painted Desert Trading Post, Gasconade Bridge, and other projects This extended version of The Route 66 Podcast is only available to Patreon members and also includes Rich talking in depth about: How he tried to honor Gary Turner with one of the largest Route 66 shields he ever painted in Paris Springs and why the Missouri DOT requested it be removed.  Hear about the compromise they both agreed upon. Although it was "never his intention to become president," Rich talks about how the past president antagonized him one too many times and the final straw that caused him to run for president and overwhelmingly win the seat.  You may be surprised at the grade he gives himself as president. His thoughts on the closing of the Eat-Rite Diner in St. Louis amidst a worldwide pandemic.  What are some of the biggest challenges of operating a historic business along Route 66 in St. Louis? Thank you again to everyone who has supported both the podcast and scholarship program through Patreon.  The 2020 - 2021 scholarship program is currently being rolled out and please encourage all students in grades K - college to apply.  The college award will be $500. Congratulations to Patreon supporter Rich Havlik from Minnesota, who is the latest Patreon winner!  Rich has won a Route 66 wall calendar. Roamin' Rich Links: Website: Roamin' Rich Website: Gary Turner (Gae Parita Service Station) Website: Missouri Route 66 Association FB Page: Painted Desert Trading Post FB Page: John's Modern Cabins FB Page: Eat-Rite Diner

At 92 years old, Peter MacDonald is just one of five surviving Navajo Code talkers who played a vital part in World War II during the Battle of Iwo Jima, where 25,000 lives were lost over a period of 6 weeks.  Upon his return home, he was sworn to a vow of secrecy for 23 years until the Marines declassified the mission while working as a Project Engineer on the Polaris Missile Project for Howard Hughes.  MacDonald has also served as a four time Chairman of The Navajo Indian Nation, a position similar to a governor of native American territory. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with local Route 66 realtor Jacque Kellogg who connects the Navajo Code talkers with a little known motel that sits on Route 66 in Flagstaff, AZ.

The Route 66 Podcast Scholarship winners have been announced, and they are featured on the current episode of The Route 66 Podcast. The program invited students in grades K - 12 to submit original work that promotes and preserves our beloved highway, Route 66.   The program this past year included a total of $175 in awards, and applicants were invited to submit almost any medium that would express their interest in Route 66, including:  Art Work Photographs Crafts   Interviews  Theatrical Performance  Music  Videos  PowerPoint, Prezi, Canva, Google Slides,  Multimedia Presentation You can see the winning entries on our website at Route 66 Podcast.com. In addition, the show introduces the Route 66 Podcast and Scholarship Patreon program, where you can support efforts to promote and preserve Route 66.  Patreon supporters can sign up to receive a washable Route 66 face mask, early release of podcasts including extended episodes, promotional materials related to Route 66, and the opportunity to vote in the 2021 Scholarship program.

Unknown to many, the Bloomington-Normal (Illinois) area along The Mother Road is the birthplace to aerial circus performance in America.  Join host Anthony Arno as he dives deep into circus life along Route 66 with three very special guests, who have committed their lives to aerial circus performance and preservation.  Wayne Wright was a human cannonball, being shot out of a cannon over 1100 times.  Marcus Alouan is the current director of the Gamma Phi Circus, the oldest collegiate circus in America located on Route 66 at Illinois State University, and Maureen Brunsdale, author of The Bloomington-Normal Circus Legacy.

For more than three decades Jim Hinckley has been telling people where to go and sharing the adventure.  His passion for Route 66, the back roads of America and the automobiles he has shared through books, feature articles, blog posts, video, Facebook live programs, and presentations.   Published work includes nineteen books on topics as diverse as The Illustrated History of the Checker Cab Manufacturing Company,  Ghost Towns of Route 66, Travel Route 66, The Big Book of Car Culture, and The Route 66 Encyclopedia, and most recently Murder and Mayhem on Route 66.    Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Jim about his extensive book writing career featuring Route 66, and Jim gives personal feedback from some of his most favorite places along Route, his work in his home community of Kingman, AZ, and his early encounter with Jay Leno.

The life sized Blue Whale in Catoosa, OK, is one of the most recognized structures to be found along Route 66.  Hugh Davis built The Blue Whale as an anniversary gift to his wife Zelta back in the 1970's.  At its peak The Blue Whale was. a popular swimming. spot, drawing well over 100 locals on a hot summer day.   Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Blaine Davis (78 years old)  about his fathers life long work as the director of the Tulsa Zoo, growing up with parents who appreciated the outdoors, and what prompted Hugh to construct The Blue Whale upon retirement despite not having any welding experience or working with cement.   In addition, Linda Hobbs, The Blue Whale gift shop manager and author of a children's book featuring this Oklahoma icon also joins the conversation as she talks about the importance of The Blue Whale, what it was like working with Hugh, and why Route 66 is so important for the younger generation of children who visit this popular Mother Road destination.      

Perhaps one of the most popular motels along Route 66, The Blue Swallow Motel has been in operation since 1941 and still provides patrons with private garages for their vehicles.  Originally received as a wedding gift from her fiance, Lillian Redman ran the motel for over 40 years before stepping back from the hospitality business in her late 80's.  Since that time, there have been other owners, but Kevin and Nancy Mueller have maintained the true character of The Blue Swallow since 2011 that would have made Lillian proud. Named by Smithsonian Magazine as "the last, best and friendliest of the old-time motels", The Blue Swallow Motel has caught the attention of everyone from Pixar films to Bob Dylan.   Featured in the classic movie Cars, The Blue Swallow's neon is a wink in the movie to The Cozy Cone Motel, which displays in neon, "100% Refrigerated Air" slogan. Join The Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he talks with Kevin Mueller about maintaining and operating one of the most popular destinations along the Road.  The episode features talks about: Kevin and his wife looking for a semi-retirmement career along Route 66 What the Mueller's didn't know about Route 66 and The Blue Swallow Motel Truly understanding the appeal of The Blue Swallow  Transitioning from a corporate executive to managing an iconic Route 66 establishment Behind the scenes renovations at The Blue Swallow What the Mueller's wish they knew before taking over The Blue Swallow A typical day at the motel The life of Lillian Redman, early proprieor of The Blue Swallow (1958)

Long before the glory days of Route 66, the Route 66 town of Dwight, IL,  was the center of the world thanks to a Civil War surgeon who established the world's first treatment center for alcohol and drug addiction.  Dr. Keeley's method involved having patients ingest flecks of gold dust, which was very secretive at the time.  Join Dr. Timothy Hickman, from Lancaster University (United Kingdom) as he talks with Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno all about a little known treatment center that continued to exist well into the glory days of Route 66. By the 1900, Dr. Keeley was perhaps the most famous physician in the world that people loved to hate because of his methodology.  Many thought that he was a real "quack," but he was certainly a pioneer in treating addictions with over 200 treatment centers around the world by the beginning of the 20th Century. Don't miss one of those episodes about Route 66 that truly contains a bizarre but true story about life along The Mother Road.  

The El Vado, a 1937 Route 66 Motel,  was recently purchased by Chadd Rennaker and not only restored the motel to its original charm,  but he also converted select rooms into a gathering space for area merchants.  The result is a Route 66 destination that allows travelers not only a place to stay, but also a place to sample the local food and crafts from the regions.   Join Route 66 host Anthony Arno as he talks with Chadd about restoring the El Vado Motel in Albuquerque, NM.

Tom Peters is the Dean of Library Services at Missouri State University, and an oral historian.  Join Route 66 host Anthony Arno as he talks with Tom about his series of interview with twenty two individuals directly associated with the trucking industry along Route 66. Tom talks about the the importance of trucking

The final in a three part series featuring The Fred Harvey Company.  This episode features a talk with three women who worked for The Fred Harvey Company during the final days of the company, 1958.  In addition, episode features a talk with Katy Miller, great, great, great granddaughter of Fred Harvey.

Arizona based entrepreneur Allan Affeldt has successfully proven more than once that he can purchase old, abandoned railroad buildings along Route 66 that has had the Fred Harvey footprint and converted them into historically beautiful hotels in the southwest. Join Route 66 host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Allan Affeldt, who has dedicated his life to restoring Route 66 buildings successfully proven to grow the local economy beyond what anyone had ever imagined.  Allan begins talking about various social causes he promoted as a college student that gained international attention to stumbling upon a dilapidated 1929 hotel in Arizona that was once a Fred Harvey station. In addition, Allan also talks about his restoration of historic hotels in Las Vegas, NM, including his latest project restoring the 1898 Fred Harvey hotel, La Castanada.      

Stephen Fried, author of Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the American West, talks all about the life of Fred Harvey and how Route 66 would later emerge once the railroad was being replaced by the automobile.   A three part series, highlighting the life and work of 19th Century entrepreneur Fred Harvey.  Episodes include talks with the author of the most comprehensive Fred Harvey book ever researched, a businessman who has successfully restored former Harvey House buildings into destination hotels, surviving Fred Harvey employees who were there during the mid-20th Century just prior to the closing of Fred Harvey restaurants, and the great, great, great granddaughter of Fred Harvey- Katy Miller.

The proprietor of The Rock Cafe, Dawn Welch, is a Route 66 icon and was the inspiration for the character Sally Carrera in the CARS movie.  The Rock Cafe was constructed in 1936 from leftover sandstone rock that was used to construct Route 66.   Dawn talks all about her oriiginal plans to open a cafe in South America and literally rollerblading into The Rock Cafe after expressing an interest in purchasing the fixtures.  From famous patrons visiting the cafe, to rebuilding the cafe after a devastating fire, Dawn tells all about her life since The Rock Cafe.

The original Launching Pad Restaurant opened in 1960 by John Korelc under a different name, and while attending the National Restaurant Convention, Korelc paid $3500 for a fiberglass Muffler Man to draw attention to his restaurant. Korelc had his newly purchased fiberglass giant updated to keep in line with the 1960’s space race as an astronaut with helmet and rocket, and renamed the restaurant, as the "Launching Pad”. There was a naming contest and the fiberglass giant soon became known as The Gemini Giant which has always been a popular photo opp for many traveling through Wilmington, just 60 miles out of Chicago. In 2007, the Launching Pad was purchased from Jerry and Sharon Gatties, the owners at the time, by Morey Szczecin, but, after a struggle, the landmark closed again in 2010. In October 2017, it was purchased by Holly Barker and Tully Garrett, who announced plans to restore it "to what it was in its glory days," with the Gemini Giant remaining as a recognized Route 66 landmark. Both the Launching Pad and the Gemini Giant were inducted into the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame in 2000.

Today, we’ll be visiting one of the most popular stops along Route 66, known for its wild burros, beautiful mountains and of course Route 66. I’ll be talking with Jackie Roland Murray, who wrote a book highlighting the history of Oatman and more.  

The Jack Rabbit Trading post is a famous Route 66 curio shop located in Joseph City, Arizona.  The trading post is known for its large fiberglass jackrabbit that visitors are often photographed riding out front.  In addition, The Jack Rabbit Trading Post popularized the store by placing large HERE IT IS billboards all along Route 66.  The Classic CARS film depicts the Jack Rabbit with a Model T Ford in place of a jackrabbit and Lizzie is the store's owner. The Jack Rabbit Trading post is a famous Route 66 curio shop located in Joseph City, Arizona.  The trading post is known for its large fiberglass jackrabbit that visitors are often photographed riding out front.  In addition, The Jack Rabbit Trading Post popularized the store by placing large HERE IT IS billboards all along Route 66.  The Classic CARS film depicts the Jack Rabbit with a Model T Ford in place of a jackrabbit and Lizzie is the store's owner.    

The story of Times Beach is not a celebratory one that showcases Route 66.  Instead, the story of Times Beach is one that not may people are familiar with, even 35 years later.   Times Beach was a beach community along the Meramec River that hired the services of a local waste hauler, Russel Bliss, to spread used machinery oil over the dirt roads to keep the dust to a minimum.  It would later be discovered that the recycled oil would contain one of the deadliest compounds known to man, dioxin.   Listen in as host Anthony Arno talks with the final mayor of Times Beach, Marilyn Leistner, as she talks about her role of supervising the complete distruction of a community of 2000 residents and all personal property.

The Wagon Wheel Motel is the longest continously operated motel along Route 66.     A talk with Mark Linder, who is bicycling Route 66 in honor of his son who passed away at the age of 6.     A talk with Dora XXX, and the upcoming Shamrock Festival in Texas, where 3,000 attendees are expected.

Decades before Route 66 the Mojave Desert Road took travelers miles across the Mojave Desert.  Dennis Casebier talks about his original intention of creating a 130 mile hiking trail across the Mojave Desert along one of America's first highway, but realizing that a 4 wheel drive trail would be more practical.   Guest Dennis Casebier founded the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association, and he tells the story about converting an old school house into an area museum to promote the rich history of the Mojave area.     When you think of Route 66 in the Mohave desert, most people think of Amboy and probably one of the most photographed sites in the mojave. But dennis settled in Goffs, a town about 50 miles NE of Amboy Where he bought and restored an old school house and eventually turned it into a museum to promote a better understaning of areas natural and historical history. Now, I might be a bit parital along with many of my listeners about Route 66, but dennis is a pioneer when it comes to that other road…. The Mojave Road which predates Route 66. Dennis has written many books about the region, documenting every mile of the Mojave Road and there are people out there who will drive the original road in specially equipped vehicles. I’d like to play for you a clip where dennis is talking about his passion for the Mohave Trail Road and how he wanted to preserve and document the road, which was a dirt road that crossed the Mohave way before Route 66 and still exists today in it’s original form- all 130 miles of it. Then, we’re going to jump to where dennis talks about how the area was used as a very important training site for General Patton in preparation for the African invasion during world war 2  

Meramec Caverns is one of the most famous sights along Route 66 and consists of almost 5 miles of a cavern system outside St. Louis, Missouri. Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with the grandson of the founder of the caverns, Les Turulli.   Les talks about how his grandfather came up with the idea of painting the sides of barns along Route 66 to promote the caverns to travelers, far and wide. In addition, as a young boy, Les tells about how he helped his grandfather affix promotional tags onto the bumpers of cars, which eventually gave birth to the bumper sticker.

On March 4, 1928, 199 men lined up in Los Angeles, California, to participate in a 3,400-mile transcontinental footrace to New York City. The Bunion Derby, as the press dubbed the event, was the brainchild of sports promoter Charles C. Pyle. He promised a $25,000 grand prize and claimed the competition would immortalize U.S. Highway Route 66, a 2,400-mile road, mostly unpaved, that subjected the runners to mountains, deserts, mud, and sandstorms, from Los Angeles to Chicago.

Route 66 is sometimes referred to as The Will Rogers Memorial Highway, but not many people know who Will Rogers was. Rogers, Oklahoma's favorite son,  was a stage and motion picture actor, vaudeville performer, cowboy, humorist, newspaper columnist, and social commentator who was born and raised along Route 66. Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Tad Jones, Director of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum all about the life of one of the most beloved personalities of his generation that starred in over 71 movies and was the highest paid entertainer of his time.

The Road Crew – America’s Route 66 Band takes the Mother Road to their audiences throughout the world.  “We spread the history and stories of Route 66 to every generation through our ‘Songs From The Mother Road.’  We encourage our audiences to discover America’s Main Street for themselves.” The band received the first time ever ‘Bobby Troup Artistic Recognition Award’ from the International Route 66 Association in 2011. The Road Crew – The official musical ambassadors for The Mother Road!

Fort Reno in Oklahoma was once the home to 1300 German Prisoners of War (POW's) during World War II.  Originally established in 1874 to protect the Darlington Indian Reservation.  Fort Reno was used as a horse training camp for WW I and WW II, and the site was later used to house German soldiers who were captured in Northern Africa during WW II. Carolyn Barker shares some of the most fascinating (and unknown) stories about the Fort Reno POW camp.  While nothing but a water tower remains from the POW camp, there is a cemetery with 62 soldiers who were laid to rest.  These solndiers died from war injuries, illnesses, accidents, and even a murder where five POW's were charged and eventually hung.   Carolyn tells a number of very touching stories, including the reaction from German soldiers who honestly believed that New York was entirely leveled during the war and wondered how the city could have been built back so quickly; the loyalty of German soldiers to the local community who assisted local farmers during the war effort, and the repatriation of soldiers who were buried in Oklahoma and later relocated back to their motherland after family members discovered they were laid to rest in Oklahoma.

Tom Coffin remembers as a child being asked by his teacher to create drawings to help decorate his classroom for holidays and other special events.  From there, he eventually wound up in NYC where he worked for the NYC Historic Landmark Commission where he restored historic buildings, such as The Pierre, Carneige Hall, and the Smithsonian Museum for the American Indian.   Wanting to return back to the southwest, Tom entered a Route 66 competition to design a Route 66 monument as part of the state of New Mexico Highway Commission.  Tom tells all about the process from design, creating a miniature model for the selection committee, to taking up residence in Tucumcari to physically build the monument.        

000000E9 000000E9 00004A00 000049EC 0024D359 0024D359 00007EF6 00007EFF 00158DDB 00158DDB   The Coral Court Motel can undeniably be grouped with The Munger Moss and Blue Swallow, as an iconic Route 66 landmark motels.  However, The Coral Court Motel is long gone from the suburbs of St. Louis.   John Carr opened The Coral Court in 1942, during the US World War II mobilization effort.  The motel had an unusual art deco design and each room had an adjacent garage for travelers to park their automobile.  

The Route 66 News website at www.Route66News is a clearinghouse of news and historic events taking place along The Mother Road.  Join The Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno as he interviews the curator of Route 66 News, Ron Warnick.   Ron has been publishing Route 66 news on almost a daily basis since October 9, 2005!   Listen in as Ron tells about: His earliest memory or Route 66 How Route 66 News Site got started The most popular news story that has been downloaded from the site Some of the most iconic figures that live and work along Route 66 One of the most unbelievable stories he's ever published about Route 66 One of the most craziest stories ever published on the site about Route 66 Ron has lived on or near the Mother Road his entire life and remains dedicated to providing up to date information about Route 66.  He's participated in preservation projects from Illinois to Texas when it comes to America's Main Street.  Ron has traveled the entire length of the highway at least three times.    

Are you a dedicated fan of Route 66?  What makes you think so?  Do you have tons of Route 66 memorobilia in your home?  A wide assortment of Route 66 t-shirts?  Something special that screams out Route 66 on your car?   Join host Anthony Arno on The Route 66 Podcast as he interviews the ultimate Route 66 fan, Ron Jones.  Ron has over 150 tattoos on his body dedicated to Route 66.   Ron will tell the many stories about his tattoos, including a very special one that honors the work of Laurel Kane of Afton Station.