A Look at Route 66 from Hamel to Broadwell in Illinois

Last Thursday, Liz and I drove Route 66 from Hamel to Litchfield, then from Springfield to Dwight and took notes of any changes we saw.

MERAMEC CAVERN BARN-- as reported yesterday, the upper part is just splinters after a big wind storm in the area.

RICH HENRY'S in Staunton-- Rich now has the very first Bob Waldmire van, actually a '67 air-cooled engine Volkswagen station wagon. Resident rabbit greeter and postcard-stamper Big red was to be on St' Louis TV, the following day. He is being groomed to take Montana's place.

SOULSBY STATION in Mt. Olive. The south side of the sign is getting really faded and there is a hole in the north side.

FARMERSVILLE-- The restaurant at Art's Motel is called Art's BBQ. It didn't appear to be open.

SPRINGFIELD-- Right where northbound Route 66 turns east, stands a round bar which was there during the 66 heyday. For many years it was called George Ranks, then it was closed for several years before reopening in 2010. It is right next to that neat old car wash neon sign. Worth a stop.

WILLIAMSVILLE to BROADWELL-- Route 66 is in really bad shape after this winter. be prepared for a real bumpy ride.

BROADWELL-- Sorry to see a for sale sign at Ernie and Fran's house.

A Quick Look at Illinois Route 66. --RoadDog