Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 6: Pullman Porters Had Prestigious Jobs

In 2016, former Pullman porter Benjamin Gaines, who worked on the railroads from 1945 to 1954, spoke about his job from his Evanston home.

"The porters, believe it or not, we had a celebrity status," Gaines told the Tribune.  "We were upper-class because it was a prestigious job."

For some porters - who worked on the palace cars starting in the very early years of the Pullman company - the job was their first after the end of slavery.  There was a certain exctement, not to mention pride, that came from working on the palace cars.

As black men with freedom of movement at a time when freedom was restricted for many other black Americans, porters clandestuinely carried copies of black newspapers, including the Chicago Defender, on the palace cars to distribute along their routes.

--RoadDog

Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 5: Failure of the Strike and Aftermath

But the strike fell short in this attempt, because earlier in the year, the American Railway Union had voted to bar black workers -- like the Pullman Porters -- from joining.

In July, the strike was forcibly crushed by U.S. Army troops.  Debs, along with other leaders of the railway union, was imprisned.

Years later,the Illinois Supreme Court odered the Pullman company to sell its nonindustrial property. Many of the workers then bought their own homes.

But, in the short term, workers didn't see meaningful improvement in their wages or quality of life.  And, the American Railway Union was essentially finished off along with the strike.

--RoadDog

Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 4: Labor Strife

In 1893, an economic depression led George Pullman to decrease factory workers' wages.  But, he didn't lower the rent they paid him to live in his company town.

The worlers felt like their robber baron was passing on the cost of the recession to them.  In May 1894, the workers went on strike.

The American Railway Union, led by Eugene Debs, came in to represent the factory workers and called for a nationwide boyctt of Pullman railcars.  That summer more than 18,000 Pullman workers walked off the job and were joined by over 200,000 railway workers nationwide.

Almost all of the railroads out of Chicago -- the rail hub of North America -- were shut down.

Said Gabriel Winant, a history professor at the University of Chicago, "The real historical significance of (the strike) is the very early effort at industrial unionism" -- an organizing method in which all workers at an industry are represented by the same union, rather than by disparate craft unions.

--RoadStrike

Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 3: History

In 1880, George Pullman began construction of his company town, located at the time outside the Chicago city limits.  It was in Pullman that workers -- skilled craftspeople and mechanics, many of whom were immigrants -- constructed Pullman's palace car.

The town featured row houses -- with indoor plumbing -- for workers, a library, school, grocery store and more, all  company owned.

At the time, Pullman was praised for his innovation and planning but criticized for his paternalism.  In 1894, factory workers walked off the job in a massive strike that led to a national recognition of Labor Day.  Decades later, the Pullman porters, who worked on the palace cars, formed the first black labor union with major standing.

"Pullman may appear all glitter and glow, all gladness and glory to the casual visitor, but there is a deep, dark background of miscontent wich it would be idle to deny," the Chicago Tribune reported in 1888, in a quote now emblazoned on the wall of the new visitors center.'

--RoadDog

Chicago's Pullman Monument-- Part 2

This weekend will be a neighborhood-wide Labor Day celebration.  Visitors can take part in free tours of the visitors center and the historic Hotel Florence.  The Illinois Labor History Society will host walking tours of the neighborhood.

On Monday, the National A. Philip Randolph Pulman Porter Museum will open for its Urban Renaissance event, a commemorationof the Great Migration complete with live music and art space.  

Amtrak will carry historic Pullman palace cars -- the luxurious rail cars Pullman's company produced and sold to railroad companies across the country -- into town for the event; visitors can tour them at the 111th Street/Pullman Metra station.

--RoadPull

Chicago's Pullman Monument-- Part 1

From the September 21, 2021, Chicago Tribune "This is Chicago's DNA" byTalia Soglin.

Teri Gage, superintendent of the Pullman National Monument says Pullmam's history is still relevant today:  "We're talking about immigration, social  justice and the labor rights."

Labor Day weekend, 2021, marked the grand opening of the Pullman National Monument Visitor Center in the famous clock tower and surrounding factory grounds.  This did not come about overnight.  The road to this was driven by more than a half century of grassroots neighborhood effort.

In 1998, an arsonist set fire to the clock tower building which was rescued from demolition after residents of the surrounding area orchestrated a letter-writing campaign to save it.

In the six years since President Obama declared the Pullman Historic District a national monument, the National Park Service has contended with toxic soil, funding challenges and bureaucracy.

Residents and community organizations hope the opening of the  visitor center and new exhibits will bring heightened national recognition of Pullman's history, as well as economic investment and development to the Far South Side.

--RoadDog

Bison Roaming Over a Bridge on Mississippi River?-- Part 2: The Fred Schwengel Memorial Bridge

The I-80 bridge's westbound lanes would turn into grassy grounds for bison to roam.  The eastbound lanes would feature a pedestrian and bike path offering a close-up view of the large land mammals that are estimated to at one time to have numbered over 60 million in North America.

Swaths of prairie land would connect to the base of the bridge on each side of the buffalo lanes.

The Fred Schwengel Memorial Bridge that carries I-80 over the Mississippi River opened in 1966 and was  named for a local Iowa Republican congressman who was instrumental in backing the Interstate Highway Act.  Each day, roughly 42,000 vehicles drive over the more than half mile long bridge, which connects Rapid City, a small Illinois town of about 1,000 people, and LeClaire, a quaint city of aboutb 4,000 in Iowa.

--RoadBison

Bison Roaming a Bridge Over the Mississipi River? The Proposed 'Bison Bridge'

Imagine seeing something like that.

From the May 2, 2021, Chicago Tribune by Bill Ruthhart.

Most travelers and truckers approaching the Interstate 80 bridge over the Mississippi River see a rather unremarkable structure with no elaborate trusses, suspension cables or bright lights, just a weathered span of concrete that rises gradually over the river.

However, there is a movement to make the structure the centerpiece of a 100-acre national park where bison would roam between Illinois and Iowa along the world's largest human-made wildlife crossing, putting the Quad-Cities region on the map of major tourist attractions.

Dubbed the Bison Bridge, the project is driven by the facr that Iowa and Illinois transportation officials have declared the current I-80 bridge obsolete and in likely need of replacement.  Instead of spending millions of dollars of taxpayer money to tear down the 55-year-old bridge, private money is wanted to preserve and transform it.

Sounds Like A Good Idea To Me.  --RoadDog

Along66, Nov. 2022: Frankoma Pottery Co. Reopens

NOVEMBER 21

Frankoma Pottery Company store opens in Glenpool, Oklahoma, after a long hiatus.

It was originally in nearby Sapulpa from 1933 to 2003.

Liz and I were ucky enough to get to go there before they closed.  They sure made some fine pottery.

***************************

NOVEMBER 22

Inside Hook "Tracing the path of historic Route 66 just outside of Chicago.  Joe Rosenthal.

--RoadDog

Along66, Nov. 2022: The El Rancho Motel Sign and the Budweiser Sign

NOVEMBER 11

Demolition will spare the El Rancho Motel's big sign in Barstow, California.

A massive fire early this year will cause the demolition of the motel itself.

It was built in the 1940s by Cliff Chase, partly out of old railroad ties.

The 100-foot-high neon sign was erected in 1947.

NOVEMBER 15

The huge neon Budweiser sign in St. Louis, Missouri, has been relighted.  It is along Highway 40 and I-64 and includes a 32-foot flapping eagle.

It cost $350,000 to build in 1953 and was originally located on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles before being moved to St. Louis in 1962.

Love Those Old Neon Signs.  --RoadDog

Along66, Nov. 2022: Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and Ramona Lehman

I get these posts from the Route 66 News blog site.   If you want to know what is going on along our favorite road, this is where you want to go.  There is a new post most every day.  I just pick out the ones where I have the most interest.  

The site gives more information and has pictures and videos.  Plus, I am usually a month or more behind as you can see.

NOVEMBER 1

Groundbreaking was held for improvements to the Missouri side of the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis.

This is being run by the Great Rivers Greenway.  They will also install restrooms, drinking fountains, local artwork and a pavilion.

Probably the biggest thing is increased security.  All kinds of damage was done to vehicles when their owners left them to walk the bridge.

NOVEMBER 9

Munger Moss Motel (in Lebanon, Missouri) owner Ramona Lehman received the Lebanon Community Achievement Award during the 21st annual Wall of Honor banquet.  She and her late husband Bob have owned the vintage motel for over fifty years.

A well-deserved honor.  

Ramona is truly the Spirit of Route 66.

--RoadDog

RoadTrip to Hammond, Indiana, to See Places That Inspired Jean Shepherd's 'A Christmas Story'

As you may know already, but we are just a week away from the double 24-hour marathons of "A Christmas Story" on TBS and TNT.  I'm looking forward to seeing my favorite Christmas movie again.  I'll watch the whole movie once and then parts every know-and-then.

I have been writing a lot about the places in Hammond, Indiana, where Jean Shepherd grew up and inspired the places in the movie.

You can see those posts in my Cooter's History Thing blog this month.  Just click on that blog in the MY Blogs area to the right of this to read about them.

--RoadStory

Along66, Oct. 2022: The Tee Pee Drive-In and All That Neon

OCTOBER 24

The Tee Pee Drive-In theater in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, to show movies for the first time in 20 years on Halloween weekend.  It is on the west side of Sapulpa.  

Always nice to have something old, especially a drive-in theater,  reopening on the road.

OCTOBER 28

Restoration of the Hi-Way Cafe sign in Vinita, Oklahoma.

One of the newest cost-share grants announced by the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program.

Four of the announced grants involved neon signs.  The others:

**  Henning Motel sign in Newberry Spring, California

**  Road Runners retreat near Chambless, California

**  a DIY instrumental video on neon sign servicing and repair

You Can NEVER Have Too Much Neon In My Book.  --RoadDog

Along66, October 2022: The Skyview's Gone to the Dogs and Oklahoma's Pont Bridge

OCTOBER 18

The Skyview Drive-In Theater in Litchfield, Illinois, broke the record for most dogs at a drive-in.  The previous record was 120 dogs.  The Skyview reported unofficially that they had 400 dogs but had stopped registering the dogs after reaching 200 of them because of safety concerns.

This is a Guiness World Record attempt.

Where do they come up with these "records?"

OCTOBER 22 

The famed Pony Bridge in western Okahoma is set to close on October 31 for at least two years.  It will be undergoing extensive improvements to preserve the deteriorating trusses.

Watch Your Step at the Skyview.  --RoadDog

Along66, Oct. 2022: It's Back in Carthage

OCTOBER 13

The Pancake Hut in Carthage, Missouri, was marking the homecoming of its restored Chicago Band Box from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m..

The restaurant is next to the Boots Court motel.

The Band Box was shipped to California for restoration earlier this summer.  I wrote a lot about it then.  Click on the Chicago Coins Band-Box label below to see the posts.

The Chicago Band Box has been at the Pancake Hut since 1979.

OCTOBER 17

And speaking of the historic Boots Court motel, the neon lights are glowing again on Carthage.

All That Carthage.  --RoadDog

Along66, Oct. 2022: Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba Up for Sale

OCTOBER 11

Owner puts historic Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri, up for sale.

Owner Connie Echols plans to retire.

Robert W. and Margaret Martin bought the land on which the motel would be built in 1934.  They hired Leo Friesehan to construct they cabins from native stone hauled in by local farmers.

Pauline and Hallie Robertson ran i8t from 1965 to 1980 when Hallie died.  Pauline married Harold Armstrong and they ran it until her death in 2003. Harold died in 2008.  (We stayed at the motel during their time of owning it.)

The Armstrongs, right up until the last day they ran it, charged less than $20 a night for a room.  (I questioned them on that price when we stayed there for $16.)

UPDATE:  Asking price for the Wagon Wheel is $1.75 million.

A big thanks to Connie for all the work she has done to fix this place up.  It was kind of down-at-the-tooth when we stayed there.  Much nicer the most recent time.

--RoadDog

81st Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Today: Burial of USS Oklahoma Unknown Herbert Jacobson of Illinois-- Part 1

Today marks the 81st anniversary of the Day of Infamy as FDR so aptly stated it.  I will devote seven of my blogs to its memory.

From the September 8, 2022, Lake County (Illinois) Journal "Grayslake sailor killed at Pearl Harbor to be buried September 13 in Arlington National Cemetery" by Jami Kunzer.

'We've been waiting a long time for this,' nephew says of effort to lay uncle at rest.

A moment more than eight decades in the making will happen for the family of a Grayslake sailor killed during the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor.

On September 13, the remains of Herbert Jacobson, a U.S. Navy Fireman 3rd Class stationed aboard the battleship USS Oklahoma, will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, right outside of Washington, D.C.. 

"After 81 years, we're finally laying our uncle to rest," said  Brad McDonald of North Carolina, a nephew  of Jacobson and one of about a dozen family members planning to attend the burial in Virginia.  The ceremony will include a horse-drawn carriage, gun salute and official flag presentation.

Continued in My Running the Blockade: Civil War Navy blog.

Congratulations to the 2022 IHSA State Playoff Champions

Back at the end of November, the 256 high schools who had the best records in 2022 started on a quest to find the top teams in each of eight different classes.

These were the winners at each class level of the playoffs:

8A:  Loyola Academy  (Wilmette)

7A:  Mt. Carmel (Chicago)

6A:  East St. Louis

5A:  Nazareth Academy  (LaGrange Park)

4A:  Sacred Heart-Griffin  (Springfield)

3A:  Illinois Central Catholic  (Elmhurst)

2A:  St. Teresa  (Decatur)

1A:  Lena (Winslow)

Again, Congrats.  --RoadDog

U.S. Highway 14 Wins the US-14-US-12 IHSA 2022 Showdown: Prairie Ridge (Crystal Lake)

After five weeks of playoff parade, the winner of the 2022 US-14-US-12 IHSA High School Playoffs was U.S.-14 (Northwest Highway).

6A  Prairie Ridge (Crystal Lake) went into the fifth round and no US-12 team did.

Prairie Ridge lost in the Championship 6A game to East St. Louis.

--RoadDog

Route 66 Wins the Route 66-Lincoln Highway 2022 Showdown

Two Route 66 teams won their Class Brackets in the 2022 IHSA football playoffs.    The only remaining Lincoln Highway teams, 7A Batavia and 4A Providence were defeated.

ROUTE 66 Illinois State Champions:

6A: East St. Louis

4A:  Sacred Heart-Griffin  (Springfield)

Route 66 won the Showdown 2-0.

Congratulations.  --RoadBall

The Lincoln Highway-Route 66 2022 IHSA Football Championship Teams

The Championship games were played in Champaign-Urbana at the University of Illinois stadium the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Going into the Championship round it was a three-three tie between Route 66 and Lincoln Highway.

Route 66 Teams in the Championship round:

6A:  East St. Louis

4A:  Sacred Hear-Griffin (Springfield)

3A:  Williamsville

Lincoln Highway teams in Championshop round":

8A:  Lincoln Way (New Lennox)

7A:  Batavia

4A:  Providence:  (New Lennox)

--RoadDog

After the Third Round IHSA Illinois 2022 State Football Playoffs: US-14 vs US-12

Going into the third round, US-14 (Northwest Highway) had a 4-3 lead over US-12 (Rand Road).

These are the remaining teams for US-14:

6A

Prairie Ridge (Crystal Lake)

*******************************

These are the remaining US-12 teams:

7A

Lake Zurich

So, it is now a 1-1 tie.

--RoadDog

After the Third Round of IHSA Illinois State High School Football Playoffs: Route 66 vs. Lincoln Highway Showdown

The third round, Quarterfinals, was played this last weekend.  These are the Route 66 teams still playing:

6A

East St. Louis

4A

Sacred Heart-Griffin  (Springfield)

3A

Williamsville

***************************

These are the Lincoln Highway high schools remaining:

8A

Lincoln Way (Franklin)

7A

Batavia

4A

Providence  (New Lenox

****************************

The showdown is currently tied at three teams apiece.

--RoadSchool

Along66, October 2022: Of Bottles and Dogs

OCTOBER 10

Caretaker creating new aadditions to Elmer Long's Bottle Tree Ranch.

Near Oro Grande, California.  Brian McKinsey is doing it.  That is a really neat place.

OCTOBER 11

Skyview Drive-In in Litchfield, Illinois, will host another Mobil 1 Guinness Record attempt on October 15.  

It is part of Mobil's "Keep Route 66 Kickin' " campaign.  The attempt will be for most dogs.  The theater will be showing "A Dog's Way Home."  

Has Litchfield gone to the dogs?

--RoadDogDogDog

After the Second Round of IHSA Illinois High School Playoffs: US-12 vs. US-14 Showdown

After the first round there was a 6-6 tie between the teams on US-12 (Rand Road) and US-14 (Northwest Highway).

These are the teams remaining after two rounds:

US-14

8A

Maine South (Park Ridge)

Palatine

6A

Notre Dame (Niles)

Prairie Ridge (Crystal Lake)

*****************************************

US-12

8A

Palatine

6A 

Lake Zurich

4A

Richmond-Burton

So, US-14 leads 4-3.

--RoadDog

Project Oklahoma to Identify USS Oklahoma's Unknowns-- Part 3

Continued from my Saw the Elephant: Civil War and Running the Blockade: Civil War Navy blogs.

All but one of my blogs are about our veterans today.

When Project Oklahoma began with 394 Oklahoma Unknowns unaccounted for, they were hoping to identify 80% of them.  However, they ended up identifying 361, which is more than 90%!!

This was amazing to families who bever thought they'd have the chance to properly see their loved ones off.

Back in December 2021, on the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor,  the military held a  final reinternment ceremony for the remaining  33 USS Oklahoma unknowns.

All this is a striking reminder that no U.S. service person is forgotten.

The military currently has other projects underway to identify other Pearl Harbor unknowns.  In addition, this is being done on several other WW II battles and the KoreanWar.

After Second Round IHSA Illinois High School Football Playoffs: Route 66 vs. Lincoln Highway

At the end of the first round, Route 66 led 10-4.

These Route 66 high school teams won last weekend:

6A:  East St. Louis 

4A:  Sacred Heart-Griffin (Springfield)

3A:  Williamsville

2A:  Central Catholic  (Bloomington)

These Lincoln Highway high schools won last weekend:

8A:  Lincoln Way (Frankfort)

7A:  Batavia and St. Charles North

5A:  Sterling

4A:  Providence (New Lennox)  and Rochelle

Lincoln Highway now leads 6-4.

--RoadSchool

Our 49th Wedding Anniversary in My Down Da Road I Go Blog

The last week or so I have been writing about Liz and my 49th wedding anniversary trip to Galena, Illinois, in my Down Da Road I Go blog.  This was out first trip together that we had taken since the COVID thing started back in March 2020.

I wrote a lot about what we saw and did.  A good travel log.

Just click on the Down Da Road I Go blog section in My Blogs section to the right of this.

RoadDog

Along66, October 2022: Eatin' Corn Dogs and Neon Signs

OCTOBER 3

Corndog eating record broken during Mobil 1's Route 66 tour stop in Albuquerque.

Geoff Esper of Massachusetts ate 11 big corndogs in three minutes and broke the old record which was 8.

Of course, Cozy Dog in Springfield, Illinois, would not agree with this because they were NOT Cozy Dogs!!  I bet Geoff ate them plain when everybody knows a properly clad corn-err Cozy dog should have mustard and raw onions (with a side of Cozy Dog fries).

*****************************

OCTOBER 5

The newest neon sign in Tulsa's Route 66 neon sign grant program is at the Chicken and the Wolf restaurant at Harvard Avenue and 11th Avenue (Route 66).

As I Have Often Said, You Can't Ever Have Enough Neon Signs.  --RoadDog

Along66, Oct. 2022: The Boots Court and Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

I take these Along66 posts from the Route 66 News blog.  If you want to know what is going on along Route 66, this is where you want to go.  There is a post or more everyday along with pictures and a lot of information.  I just pick out the stories of the most interest to me.

OCTOBER 1

The Boots Court motel was added to the NRHP.  I am so glad this icon was brought back to us.

OCTOBER 2

Groundbreaking is set for October 29 for the improvements to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge site.

The Great Rivers Greenway will hold it October 29 from 10-11:30 am for theimprovements to the west side of the site.  These improvements involve increased security, natural features and amenities.

They received a $990,000 grant from the National Park Service.

Crossing that bridge is always one of the highlights of the Illinois Route 66 Motor Tour.

--RoadDog

Along66, September 2022: Another Look at the A. Lincoln Motel Sign

SEPTEMBER 30

Ace Sign Company has posted another preview of the A. Lincoln Motel beon sign recreation.

Boy, it sure looks neat.   It will be installed at the Route 66 Experience Legacy Neon Park at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Looks like another thing to visit in Springfield.

--RoadDog

Along66, Sept. 2022: About the Route 66 Historic Trail Legislation

SEPTEMBER 23

What's the importance of Route 66 Historic Trail legislation?

An article from the Hemmings Motor News.

Mobil's current "Keep Route 66 Kickin' " tour has an online petition to support a national trail bill for the Mother Road.

BENEFITS:

1.  Consistent signage along the length of the trail.  Illinois and Missouri have their portions of Rute 66 with plenty of signs.  However, once you get west of them, it is spotty at best.

2.  Congress can acquire land up to a quarter of a mile on either side of Route 66 alignments to protect the integrity of the trail.

3.  Of course, and this is huge, FUNDING OPPORTUNITY!!

--RoadDog

First Round Illinois High School Football Playoffs: US-12 vs. US-14

The results of last weekend are in.  At the beginning of the second round, US-12 and US-14 are tied at six teams apiece left. 

These are the US-14 (Northwest Highway) vs. US-12 (Rand Road) teams remaining in the playoffs.

US-14 (Northwest Highway)

8A  

Maine South (Park Ridge)  (7-2)

Palatine  (8-1)

7A

Prospect (Mt. Prospect) (8-1)

Hersey   (Arlington Heights)  (9-0)

6A

Notre Dame (Niles)  (6-3)

Prairie Ridge  (Crystal Lake)   (8-1)

************************************

US-12  Rand Road

8A

Palatine (8-1)

7A

St. Charles North   (9-0)

Hersey  (Arlington Heights)  9-0

Lake Zurich    (8-1)

6A

Wauconda  (8-1)

4A

Richmond-Burton  (Richmond and Spring Grove)  ( 9-0)

--Old B-Runner

First Round Illinois State High School Football Completed: Route 66 Takes a 10-8 Lead

Route 66 started off with 14 teams and now has 10 remainng.

These teams won this past weekend:

8A:  Plainfield North, Edwardsville

7A:  Collinsville, Normal Community

6A:  Normal West, East St. Louis

4A:  Joliet Catholic, Sacred Heart-Griffin

3A: Williamsville

2A:  Wilmington

************************************

Lincoln Highway started off with 17 teams and now have just 8 remaining:

8A:  Lincoln Way, Plainfield North

7A:  Batavia

6A:  Kaneland

5A:   Sterling

4A:  Providence, Joliet Catholic, Rochelle

Route 66 takes a 10-8 lead into the second round games this weekend.

High School Football, Nothing Finer.  --RoadBall

Along66, Sept. 2022: Col. Nelson's Flowers, a Neon Sign and Visitors Center

SEPTEMBER 20

Nelson Gardens to be recreated at the Camp Joy cabin in Lebanon, Missouri.

Colonel A.T. Nelson's flower garden will be at Boswell Park.  He operated the Top o' Ozarks Inn and later the Nelson Tavern and Nelson's Dream Village in Lebanon.

SEPTEMBER 22  A new neon sign has been installed at the TeePee Drive-In in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. 

It is a drive-in theater.  The neon sign is 30 feet tall.

SEPTEMBER 29

Ribbon cutting for Albuquerque's Route 66 Visitors Center will be tomorrow.  

It will also have a museum, tap room, New Mexico Music Hall of Fame and events center.

Sounds like a place to visit next time through.

Like I Said, You Can Never Have Too Much Neon.  --RoadDog

2022 US-14 vs. US-12 Football Playoffs: The US-12 Teams

These are the 2022 US-14 (Northwest Highway) vs. US-12 (Rand Road) football teams in the UHSA state playoffs.

8A

Palatine (8-1)

7A

St. Charles North  (9-0)

Prospect (Mount Prospect) (8-1)

Hersey  (Arlington Heights (9-0)

Lake Zurich  (8-1)

6A

Wauconda  (8-1)

5A

St. Viator  (Arlington Heights)  (5-4)

4A

Richmond-Burton (Richmond and Spring Grove)  (9-0)

US-14 has 9 teams in the playoffs, US-12 has 8.

Go US-12!  --RoadBall

2022 US-14 (Northwest Highway) vs. US-12 (Rand Road) IHSA Football Challenge

As we get underway tonight, these are the US-14 (Northwest Highway) high schools in the IHSA Football Playoffs.

8A  

Maine South (Park Ridge) 7-2)

Palatine (8-1)

7A

Maine West (Des Plaines)  (5-4)

Prospect (Mount Prospect)  (8-1)

Hersey  (Arlington Heights)  (9-0)

6A

Notre Dame (Niles)  (6-3)

Crystal Lake South (5-4)

Prairie Ridge (Crystal Lake)  (8-1)

5A

St. Viator  (Arlington Heights)  (5-4)

US-14 leads US-12 9 teams to 8 teams.

Go Northwest Highway.  --RoadDog

Illinois State High School Playoffs 2022: The Lincoln Highway-Route 66 Challenge

These are the Lincoln Highway teams with Class and regular season records:

8A

Lincoln Way (Franklin)  (9-0)

Plainfield North (9-0)

Plainfield South  (6-3)

7A

Geneva  (6-3)

Batavia  (6-3)

DeKalb  (6-3)

Plainfield Central  (5-4)

6A

Kaneland (Maple Park)  (6-3)

5A

Sterling   (7-2)

4A

Providence (New Lennix)  (5-4)

Joliet Catholic  (7-2)

Dixon  (6-3)

Richelle  (6-3)

2A

Newman  (Sterling)  5-4)

1A

Aurora Christian  (5-4)

Morrrison  (5-4)

Right now, Lincoln Highway leads Route 66 16 teams to 14 teams.

Go Lincoln Highway.  --RoadDog

Illinois State High School Playoffs 2002: The Route 66-Lincoln Highway Challenge

I did not include the Chicago teams.

Here are the teams and their class and record who will be playing in towns located along Route 66:

8A

Plainfield North (9-0)

Plainfield South (6-3)

Edwardsville (6-3)

7A

Collinsville  (8-1)

Plainfield Central (5-4)

Normal Community  (6-3)

6A

Glenwood (Chatham)  (7-2)

Normal West (8-1)

East St. Louis  (7-2)

4A

Joliet Catholic  (7-2)

Sacred Heart-Griffin (Springfield)  (9-0)

3A

Williamsville   (8-1)

Carlinville  (5-4)

2A

Wilmington  (8-1)

Right now, Lincoln Highway leads Route 66 16 teams to 14 teams.

Go 66.  --RoadDog

Illinois State High School Football Playoffs Start This Friday

Definitely one of my favorite times of the year.  And we have a whole lot of teams playing.  They have the best records in the state.  All but one is at least 5-4 in the 9 game season.

There are eight classes, each with 32 teams. That makes it 256 teams.     And, the major college playoffs have four teams right now, but soon to expand or so they say.

Anyway, every year lately I have been doing two high school football challenges between teams through which major Illinois roads run.  That would be Route 66 vs. the Lincoln Highway and US-14 (Northwest Highway) vs. US-12 (Rand Road).

I do not have Chicago teams in this, though.  The winning road will be the one with the last team in the playoffs.

Right now, Lincoln Highway leads Route 66 by  4-3 with two ties.

US-14 (Northwest Highway) leads US-12 (Rand Road) 5-2 with one tie.

I will be listing the teams located along Route 66, Lincoln Highway, US-14 and US-12 the next several days.

--RoadBall

Along66, September 2022: The Contents of Vernelle's Motel Auctioned

SEPTEMBER 18

The contents of Vernelle's Motel near Arlington, Missouri, are to be auctioned off Saturday.  (On September 24).  

It opened in 1938 as the Gasser Tourist Court and there was  a name change in the early 1950s when Fred and Vernelle Gasser (nephew of E.P. Gasser) bought it and added a restaurant which closed a few years later due to the widening of Route 66.

Vernelle's story is much like that of the nearby John's Modern Cabins.  It depended on Route 66, but when I-44 bypassed it it began a period of decline and then I-44 was rerouted and completely cut Vernelle's off.  The motel closed in 2016.

Sadly, we never got a chance to stay there.

--RoadDog

Return of Chicago's Roar: Those Lions at the Art Institute

From the July 20, 2022, Chicago Tribune by Doug George.

Part of anyone's initial drive on Route 66 in Chicago are the pair of iconic lion statues at the front of the Chicago Art Institute.  They went back to work Tuesday, after returning from a month of conservation work.

They now sport a fresh coat of wax after receiving a deep cleaning and coating of the protective wax at Conservation of Sculpture & Objects Studio, Inc, an art restoration service in west suburban Forest Park.

The lions were removed on June 14, having been outside for 128 years.  It was their first deep cleaning in decades. They were also checked for corrision.

The bronze statues were sculpted by artist Edward Kemeys for the museumin 1893, in time for the first Chicago World's Fair, and commissioned by Florence Lathrop Field, wife of Henry Field.  The lions were installed the following year.  The lion on the north pedestal is "on the prowl."  The other one is "In an attitude of defiance" on the south pedestal.

They have since been Chicago icons (wearing sports apparel when Chicago teams win championships), predating and the equal to Buckingham Fountain (1927), the Wrigley Building (finished 1924), the Picasso (1967) and, of course, Cloud Gate (the Bean) (2006).

--RoadDog

Along66: The Blue Whale to Celebrate Its 50th Anniversary

SEPTEMBER 14

The Blue Whale in Catoosa, Oklahoma, plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary later this month.

It will be Saturday, September 24, and will feature live music (always better than dead music unless it's Grateful), food and venders from 3-7 pm.  

Noted 66er Michael Wallis will appear at 3 pm.

The city purchased it in 2020 from long-time owners, the Davis family for $1.5 million.

Hugh Davis built it out of concrete and shaped rebar in 1970 as an anniversary gift to his wife.  It closed in 1988 and fell into disrepair  until restored in the early 2000s.  Son Blaine Davis was its caretaker for many years.

And now, of course, it is one of the big attractions on good ol' Route 66.

--RoadDog

Along66, September 2022: Best Missouri Cheeseburger and Those Milk Shakes

SEPTEMBER 7

Yelp voters name Carl's Drive-In as having the best cheeseburger in Missouri.  It is located in St. Louis suburb Brentwood on Manchester Road, a Route 66 alignment (one of many, many, many St. Louis alignments in town) for over 60 years.

Something about eating a highly-rated cheeseburger on Route 66 that appeals to me.  I have never been on the Manchester Road alignment so maybe next time and a stop at Carl's are in order.  Especially since St. Louis is now off my personal boycott list.

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SEPTEMBER 13

Snow Cap Drive-In on Seligman, Arizona, sets a Guinness World Record serving 266 different milk shakes.

But they didn't serve a prune shake.

What will Guiness World Record next?  Biggest Booger or Log in the Toilet?

--RoadPrune

Iconic Missouri Route 66 Motel Up for Sale: Cuba's Wagon Wheel Motel

From the October 12, 2022, Ozarks First by Brian Dulle.

This news is from the Route 66 Association of Missouri.

The owner and proprietor of  the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri,  Connie Echols, has announced that she will be selling the historic motel and plans to retire.

It is the oldest, continually operating motel on Route 66, dating back to 1935

Connie has really renovated the place since she bought it back in 2009.  The place has nineteen rooms, an original service station, cafe building and that great old neon sign.

Right now, rooms cost anywhere from $78 to $138.

I did not see what the asking price is.

Liz and I stayed there twice.  Once was before Connie bought the place and it was a bit rundown, but clean (and the room cost $25).  We also stayed there since it was renovated and it was much nicer.

Of course, Cuba has quite a few really great bars and Missouri Hicks BBQ which is essentially next door.

Thanks a Lot for All Your Hard Work, Connie Echols.  --RoadDog

Along66, September 2022: Ramona Lehman of the Munger-Moss Motel in Lebanon Receives the Community Achievement Award

Well, I finally made it to my goal of being just one month behind the source of these posts, the Route 66 News.  I use this site a lot as it is by far your best source for what's going on along our Mother Road.  There are posts every day, sometimes more than one and pictures as well.  I just pick the ones I am most interested in and write about them.  My posts are usually shorter than the one in the News. 

SEPTEMBER 3

Longtime owner of the Munger-Moss Motel to receive the Lebanon Community Achievement Award.

Ramona Lehman will be honored November 3 at the Chamber's annual Wall of Honor banquet.

She has owned the Munger-Moss for 52 years, most of them with husband Bob, who died several years ago.

Ramona is a friend of ours and before the pandemic, we used to see her every year.  I can think of no one more deserving of honors.

She is the Spirit and Face of Route 66.

What a Person.  --RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: Of Grain Elevators and Spindles in Illinois

AUGUST 27

The J.D. Hawes Grain Elevator Museum in Atlanta, Illinois, remains an attraction 40 years after the grain elevator closed.  I've never been to it.  Maybe next time through town.

AUGUST 31

A miniaturized version of the famed Chicagoland "Spindle" returns to Berwyn.    It once stood at a local shopping center.  Artist Pete Gamen created the new 23-foot-tall "Spindle" using fiberglass go carts instead of full-sized cars like the original had.  This new one will be located at Paison's Pizzeria and Bar.

The original one was 50-feet tall and created in 1989 by artist Dustin Shuler.  It had 8 cars impaled on a spike and was dismantled in 2008.

Extra, Extra Berwyn News!!  There is also a new Muffler Man in town at Cigars & Stripes Lounge.

As Svenghooli Would Say, "BERWYN!!"  --RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: Springfield's A. Lincoln Motel, the Cozy Dog and Country Classic Cars

AUGUST 21

Ace Sign Company gives a preview of the A. Lincoln Motel sign replica coming to the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

It will be part of the fair's  Route 66 Experience.

The A. Lincoln Motel was at 2927 S. Sixth Street (Route 66) and was torn down in the early 1990s to make way for the Cozy Dog Drive-In restaurant building which still is at the site.  The former Cozy Dog, I believe, was where the Walgreen's is today.

Other signs planned for the Legends Neon Park will be the Bel-Air Drive-In sign from Mitchell, Illinois, the Chain of Rocks Motel in Granite City and the Coliseum Ballroom in Benld.

I am definitely going to have to check out all the Route 66 stuff at the state fairgrounds.

****************************

AUGUST 24

The Country Classic Cars near Staunton lands a new owner.  The owners are retiring.

One neat place to visit.

--RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: The Launching Pad Closes and Big Attendance at the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival

I am still trying to catch up with these Along66 posts which I take from the Route 66 News blog.  I normally like to be just a month behind.

AUGUST 15

Launching Pad Drive-In in Wilmington, Illinois, closes.  Future of the restaurant seems uncertain.

Of course, this is the home of the famed Gemini Giant muffler man.  It reopened earlier this year in May during Illinois' Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor weekend celebration, but it was closed by late July.  The owners cited staffing issues.  

So sad to hear that news as this was a good place to eat at one time, although a bit close to Braidwood's Polka Dot Inn which made eating at both places a bit too much.

AUGUST 22

About 65,000 persons attended Springfield, Missouri's Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, tying the record attendance.

So good to see these festivals running again.

Let's Pull for the Launching Pad's Return.  --RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: Restaurants in One Springfield, a Hotel in the Other

AUGUST 11

Springfield, Missouri, History Museum launches an exhibit on Route 66 restaurants.

The History Museum on the Square in downtown Springfield has a new exhibit titled "Order Up:  The Restaurants of Route 66."    It features a wide variety of eating places such as fine dining at the Colonial Hotel and Kentwood Arms Hotel.

Others include Graham's Rib Station which opened in 1932 and ran for nearly 60 years and, of course, the great Steak and Shake and Red's Giant Hamburg.

***************************

AUGUST 12 

Landmark Springfield, Illinois, hotel may still have life; zoning panel to hear new variance request.

It is currently the  Wyndham City Center.  The request will be heard on September 21.  The request will be for the place to be turned into 275 apartments and 125 hotel rooms.

It originally opened as the Forum 30 Plaza Hotel in 1974.  In 1980 it became the Hilton Towers then it became the Springfield Hilton and Hilton Springfield Wyndham in 2015.

We have stayed at this great, centrally located hotel on several occasions.  It is a great experience, so hoping something positive happens and it is not torn down.

--RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: Neon Sign Goes Up at Illinois State Fair and Miles of Possibilty Update

AUGUST 7

A big Route 66 neon sign was installed at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.  It is 40 feet high and near Gate 2, the corner of Peoria Road (Route 66) and Sangamon Avenue.

Bigger is better in my book, especially NEON!!

AUGUST 7

An updated list of speakers has been announced for the Route 66 Miles of Possibility Conference being held October 20-23 at the Pontiac Eagle Performing Arts and Conference Center in Pontiac, Illinois.

Stephanie Stuckey, CEO of Stuckeys will be the keynote speaker Friday morning, October 21

They have quite the list of speakers.

--RoadDog

Along66, August 2022: Joliet Ups Its Route 66 Effort

AUGUST 4

Joliet clarifies what it will do with the nearly half million dollars it is getting for Route 66.

Joliet, Illinois, says it will beef up its Route 66 attractions for the Mother Road's upcoming centennial in 1926.  The city council loaned $484,500 to the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Center.

Among specifics:

**  A revamped Route 66 Welcome Center

**  New exhibit at the Joliet Area Historical Museum

**  Mural on the Rialto Square Theatre

**  Two new Route 66 sculptures

--RoadDog

Along66 August 2022: Grants in Illinois and Chenoa's Old Alignment

These Along66 blog entries are taken from the Route 66 News blog.  I just pick out the ones I am most interested in.  There is almost always a post every day with pictures and much more information.  So, if you really want to know what's going on along 66 this site is where you want to go.

AUGUST 1

The Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fair gets a $500,000 grant; Old Joliet Prison gets $250,000.

The State Fair plans to use the money to expand their exhibits.  The Old Joliet Prison will use their money on the exterior and illumination.

At the Fair, visitors can walk from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge.

********************************

AUGUST 3

The City of Chenoa, Illinois,  is considering redevelopment of a long abandoned section of Route 66.  Right now you can drive the four-lane 1946-1977 only.  What theprisoy are looking at is the 1926-1945 alignment.

--RoadDog

Along66 July 2022: New Murals in Oklahoma and Illinois and a New Bronze Statue in Albuquerque

JULY 27

New murals in Route Corridor in Collinsville and Edwardsville, Illinois.  There is also one in Yukon, Oklahoma.  Next to neon, I like murals the best.  Well, also museums.

JULY 31 

Albuquerque dedicates a new bronze statue of the "Breaking Bad" lead actors, Walter  White and Jesse Pinkman.  

This popular AMC show ran from 2008  to 2013.

--RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: Painted Desert Trading Post and the Boots Court

JULY 26

Rescue celebration held at Painted Desert Trading Post site.   About 60 attended.  Located on a remote stretch of Route 66 in  eastern Arizona.  It was in imminent danger of collapse.  The place closed in the late 1950s when bypassed.

The folks are to be congratulated for doing such a good job.

JULY 27

Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri, is now accepting reservations.  As of July 21 they had five rooms open and should have twelve open when finished.  They want it open by the time of Maple Leaf Festival in October.

We stayed there once and want to thank the two ladies for saving the place and the  new owners taking it farther.

--RoaddOg

 

Along66, July 2022: Rockwood Motor Court, Angel Delgadillo and 'Spike'

JULY 20

Rockwood Motor Court in Springfield, Missouri, to relight a replica of its original neon sign on August 13.  It was built in 1929.  It has come a long way from the last time we visited the restaurant and looked at the dump which was the motel part. What a mess.

JULY 22

Angel Delgadillo was inducted into the Arizona Tourism Hall of Fame.  Nobody more deserving of that honor.  

JULY 23

The Needles Regional Museum will mark the 47th birthday of "Spike" from the "Peanuts" comic strip.  The mustachiod, hat-wearing brother of Snoopy lives in the desert near Needles according to the strip.

That is one skinny dog.

Happy Retirement Mr. Angel.--RoadDog

Have Fun at Burr Ridge's Route 66-Themed Playground-- Part 4: Get Your Play on Route 66

Why do they make these for kids?

While in the nearby Texas section, you'll see two spray-painted cars half buried  in the ground -- a clever homage to Amarillo's classic public art installation (you know, Cadillac Ranch), a fixture on the modern Route 66 road trip.

Next, in the New Mexico section, kids can bounce atop a recreation of the Blue Hole, a popular stop on the Mother Road featuring a clear blue pool of water, with extensive underwater caves.

In the Arizona portion, children can take a spin on the Wigwam motel-inspired rope structure.  The route comes to an end in California, where a pier-themed area allows you to surf on the turf with a spring balance board.  At the end of the roadway, you'll find a giant 3D Route 66 photo-op sign.

The multi-generational play area is sure to be highly popular with travelers of all ages -- allowing even the youngest road-trip enthusuasts to Get Their Kicks on Route 66.

Open tothe public from dawn to dusk, the Harvester Park Playground is at 15W400 Harvester Drive in Burr Ridge.

You can see the whole thing at mykidslist.com/harvesterpark.

Is 71 Too Old to Play on It?  --RoadYoung

Have Fun at Burr Ridge's Route 66-Themed Playground-- Part 3: Meramec Caverns and the Blue Whale

The level of care and detail can be foud across the whole park, incorporating classic playground amenities and perfectly pairing them with fun and campy Route 66 theming.

Traveling from Illinois to Missouri sections, you'll be greeted by boulders representing the iconic Meramec Caverns.  

As you continue along the rubber playground flooring desugned to look like a two-lane blacktop, you'll find a 60-foot-long zipline, representing the modern interstate, and a rusted Chevy tow truck with cartoon eyes -- inspired loosely by an iconic Route 66 animated film character.  (Wonder who that could be?)

In the Oklahoma section of the park, you'll discover a climbing tunnel that pays tribute to the classic Blue Whale roadside attraction.

--RoadFun

Have Fun at Burr Ridge's Route 66-Themed Playground-- Part 2: The Sears Tower Again

Your journey on the playground starts along a tiny version of The First Hundred Miles where kids can scale The Tower -- a multi-tiered jungle gym that's festooned with faux steel girders and radio towers, looking like a certain iconic Chicago structure near the start of Route 66.  (You think it might be that tall bulding that used to be called Sears Tower?)

The Tower, which is one of the park's most detailed showpieces, allows kids to climb to the "utilities system" of the building (in reality, the lowest tier of the jungle gym of the jungle gym), where they can spin simulated water valves and activate mock, oversized electrical switches.

The next two levels feature slides decorated with local interstate signs. One modest-sized slide is perfect for any younger kids, while the second slide provides a more thrilling experience at nearly triple the length and double the height.

And I Still Refer to it as the Sears Tower.  --RoadPlay

The Johnsburg, Illinois, 9/11 Ceremony-- Part 1

I am writing the 9/11 stories today since I wasn't able to yesterday.

Yesterday, the weather especially didn't cooperate.  It rained pretty much all day, at times quite hard.  Accumulation in Chicago was at 3 inches and I'm guessing from water collected in sone containers in my yard, about 4 inches here. 

And, it was quite windy.  On he morning I took my English flag down (Queen Elizabeth) and decided not to put the U.S. one up.  The wind blew down my NIU Huskies banner on the front porch.

I went out on the driveway and got my Sunday Chicago Tribune and paging through it, did not see one article about 9/11.   I was surprised.

I had read in the Northwest Herald newspaper (for McHenry County) that a group in Johnsburg, Illinois, were going to post U.S. flags between the bank on Johnsburg Road and the Johnsburg Library.  Since that is just four miles from home I decided to go to that.

Part 2  continued today on my Down Da Road I Go Blog.  

--RoadDog

Have Fun at Burr Ridge's Route 66-Themed Playground-- Part 1

From the September 10, 2022, Northwest Herald, Illinois by Ryan Searl.

This is part of the weekly "The First Hundred Miles" series on Route 66's first one hundred miles from Chicago.

Route 66's newest point of interest is introducing visitors of all ages to the history and fun of this legendary roadway.

The Burr Ridge (Illinois) Park District has created an immersive new play landscape themed after some of the top attractions found along Route 66.  It is located in Harvester Park, just a stone's throw from historic Route 66 and conveniently close to I-55, County Line Road and Illinois Route 83.  

This amazingly detailed park is already a hit with residents with its homage to a trip along the Mother Road.  Park goers are treated to  to an interactive cross-country journey encompassing several pieces of children's play equipment-- all immaculately designed to look like popular roadside stops.

I wonder if it would look weird to see a 71-year-old oldster playing on some of that stuff?

--RoadPlay

Some More on the Chicago Coins Band-Box

From yesterday's post.  Again, go to You Tube and type it in.  It is a neat video showing the actions the figures take.

Chicago Coins Band-Box were made from 1950-1952.  Deposit a coin in the jukebox and the curtains will open and watch the animated manikin musicians play a tune by the "World's Smallest Band."  It was used in conjunction with a jukebox and when a record was played, the drapes would open and then close after the record is finished.

Chicago Coins marketed it as  a speaker that looks like an orchestra.

In 1985,  Brad Frank, owner of Brad Frank Restorations took control of the Chicago Coin Trademark after the court ordered bankruptcy.  He continued manufactiring replacement parts for the over 600 arcade machines manufactured under the  Chicago Coin Trademark.

The website has a list of places you can see it in action, but unfortuantely, I wasn't able to get it to come up.  I wonder if the one at the Pancake Hut in Carthage, Missouri, is being sent to him for restoration?

E-Bay had an ad for it back in the 1950s and it cost a big sum for then, $104.80.

The Fifties Store has one advertised as restored and costing 12,500 pounds.

--RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: The Chicago Coins Band-Box

JULY 14

The Chicago Coins Band-Box in Carthage, Missouri's Pancake Hut has been shipped to California for restoration.  If you're wondering what I'm talking about, it is a robotic band that would come to "life" with a coin deposit.  Only, it hasn't been operational for many years.

It dates back to the early 1950s and has been at the Hut since 1979.

A donation fund was set up called "The Pancake Fund."

The Pancake Hut is within walking distance of the Boots Court motel.  I ate there back when we stayed at the Boots and admired the Band-Box and would have been happy to drop my coin in to see it in action.

Glad they're getting it fixed.

You can go to You Tube to see what one looks like in operation.

Hope to see it in action next time in town.

--RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: Betty Wheatley and Allen Threatt Sr Join the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame

JULY 11

Betty Wheatley and Allen Threatt, Sr. inducted into the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall ofFame.

The ceremony was held at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton.

Betty Wheatley owned the Dairy Ranch Drive In in Afton for more than four decades.

Allen Threatt founded the Thtreatt Filling Station, one of the first black-owned gas stations that would serve black autoists who would be refused service at many other places.  The station was constructed in 1915 and at one time sold Conoco products.

I am so glad that work is planned for the station which was falling into disrepair by the time we drove by it.

It is important not to overlook the trials and tribulations of Blacks on the Mother Road.  I am glad the Green Book has gotten so much publicity.

--RoadDog

Eight Record Stores You Won't Be Driving To Anymore

From the MeTV Staff, August 29, 2022.

Back in the late 70s and during the 1980s we sure had a whole lot of record store chains.  I just couldn't drive by one without wanting to stop and I often did.

Eventually, one company, TransWorld Entertainment bought out most of these.

I did most of my shopping, of course, in the Chicagoland area.

*  Stores I remember going to.

*CAMELOT MUSIC

*COCONUTS:  Started in Chicago but branched out bto other states.

*PEACHES RECORDS & TAPES:  Remember the wooden fruit crates you could buy?

STRAWBERRIES:  New England

*SAM GOODY:  Mall chain and one of the last of these stores around.

TAPE WORLD

*TOWER RECORDS:  The best of all, but none close to me other than Chicago.

TURTLES:  From the Atlanta area and southeast.

Also, I remember Musicland which most every mall had one.  I also used to like to look for CDs at Best Buy and Circuit City.

Flipping Through the Albums.  I Loved That.  --RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: Boots Court Up for NRHP

JULY 10

The Missouri state council is to consider Boote Court's nomination for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

The Missouri Advisory Council on Historic Preservation will meet July 15 to  determine its inclusion on the  NRHP.

Boots Court is on Carthage and was built in 1939  at the "Crossroads ofAmerica" the intersection of Route 66 and Route 71.

We were fortunate enough to already get the chance to stay there and a big thanks to the two lasdies responsible for saving it.  And, now the new owners appear to be on trek to improve the place even more.  Nothing like sitting in one of those metal chairs in front of the office to get your in depth Route 66 experience.

Update.  It was recommended.

--RoadDog

For Any of You Who Are Into 1972

If you're like me, the music of 1972 is important.  This was a college year for me, split between the University of Georgia and a transfer back to Northern Illinois University to finish my senior year.

Today, Bob Stroud will be hosting his annual ode to summer 50 years ago and will be playing the songs on our radios and in our record collections fifty years ago in September 4, 1972.

The top two songs in Chicago for tomorrow, fifty years ago, according to powerhouseWLS were "Brandy" by Looking Glass and "Long Cool Woman" by the Hollies, and I'm sure he'll play those two.

It will be streaming on Chicago's WDRV, 97.1 FM, the Drive from 9 am to noon CDST and again at 9 pm.

Give it a listen.  I'll be recording it on cassette tape.

Fifty Years Ago?  Can It Be That Long Ago?  --RoadOld

Arizona's New Digital Route 66 Passport

From the August 31, 2022,  City Sun-Times  "Arizona Office of Tourism launches digital Route 66 Passport heading into Labor Day weekend."

Route 66 has long held a place in the hearts of travelers near and far, its legendary status catering to lovers of Americana, nostagia and the feel of the open road.  Now all this is being introduced to a new generation of fans via the digital Route 66 Passport from the Arizona Office of Tourism.

From Topock 66 on the Colorado River in the west to The Painted Desert Trading Post in the east plus miles of famous sights, shops, eats and towns in between, the free digital passport makes planning a Route 66 trip  easier than ever.  

And, there's even the chance to win prizes by uploading photos through the passport.

The passport is being issued during the bsy Labor Day weekend.

"Route 66's  colorful history, quirky attractions, lively dining and beautiful landscapes are the types of treasures that beg to be shared," said  Debbie Johnson,  director of the Arizona Office of Tourism.

***********************

Just don't forget the old-timey paper passports.

--RoadDog

Along66 July 2022: Angel Delgadillo, 95, Retiring from Barbering After 75 Years

JULY 8

Angel Delgadillo, 95, of Seligman, Arizona, announced his retirement from barbering after 75 years at the trade.  He is a huge name in Route 66 anything.  Also known as "The Guardian Angel of Route 66."

Virtually all of those 75 years were spent in Seligman.

His very first day was when he started at a barbering college on July 27,1947, in Pasadena, California.  (This place, by the way, was on Colorado Avenue, Route 66.)   He completed his apprenticeship in Williams, Arizona, another Route 66 town.  

Angel opened his barbershop in Seligman in 1950 in a building his father opened a barbershop.  He has been at his present location since 1972 because of the new alignment of Route 66.

He is one of those people who make the road so much fun.  I doubt that he will move away from the road that he loves so much.  We feel ourselves fortunate to have met him.

--RoadDog

New Sites Added to U.S. Civil Rights Trail-- Part 2

Established in 1841 in Memphis, Beale Street featured black-owned businesses and became a place where Blacks could work and enjoy themselves during segregation.

The street in Memphis' downtown was the site of the march led by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. that turned violent in March 1968.  The civil rights leader was killed in Memphis April 4, 1968, when he returned to lead a march in support of striking sanitation workers.

WDIA was the first station in the country programmed for the black community.

Located on Museum Row in Louisville, the Muhammad Ali Center features exhibits centered on the boxer's influential life and career.  Formerly known as Cassius Clay, Ali was born in Louisville and died in 2016 at age 74.

The SEEK Museum recognizes the work of Alice Allison Dunningham with a life-size statue and an exhibit.  Dunnigan was the first black woman admitted to the press corps for the White House, Congress and the Supreme Court.

--RoadDog

New Sites Added to U.S. Civil Rights Trail in 2020

From the March 1, 2020, Chicago Tribune by Adrian Sainz, AP.

Two sites in Kentucky and two in Tennessee have been added to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

The Mohammad Ali Center in Louisville and the SEEK Museum in Russellville are the two new sites in Kentucky.  In Memphis, Tennessee, the Beale Street Historic District and the WDIA radio station were  added to the trail which was launched in 2018 to promote civil rights tourism.

The Civil Rights Trail includes about 120 churches, schools, courthouses, musuems and other landmarks, primarily between Topeka, Kansas, and Washington, D.C., that were important to the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s.

--RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: Rock City Cafe and Ozark Motel in Missouri

JULY 7

A dive into the history of the defunct Rock City on You Tube channel called Gateway Explorer.

The Rock City Cafe that once stood along Route 66 in Eureka, Missouri, (outside St. Louis). was built in 1933 by Ed LaMarr on a hill at the edge of Times Beach along the 1932 alignment of Route 66.

It was operated by Luther "Ambrose" Keeton who expanded it to include a gas station and tourist cabins.  It was once called the Ozark Motel.

Stones from it were quarried from Babler State Park by 40-50 members of the CCC.  The place was very popular until bypassed by I-44 in the 1950s.

In 1957, the whole place was demoslished and the land sat vacant until this past spring when the Byerly RVs cleared the land for an expansion of their parking lot.

--RoadDog

Blues Brothers All Over Joliet This Weekend-- Part 3

On Saturday, fans will get the gospel side of things when a gospel music service will be followed by music from Mondo Cortez & the Chicago Blues Angels and then Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials.

Local gospel groups Will Terry & Sounds of Joy, Chrysann Moore and the Lewis University Gospel Choir will perform after an ecumenical church service.  A free open-to-the-public screening of the "Blues Brothers" will conclude the festivities Saturday night.

Said Jim Belushi, "This movie brought great joy.  It's great music.  It's mischievous and fun."

"And, it's a mission from God to deliver spititual awakening, bringing everyone to the light with joy of the music that was born and bred in gospel."

The Blues Brothers Band headlines Friday night with Dan Aykroyd reprising his role as Elwood Blues and Jim Belushi channeling his late brother John as "Joliet" Jake.

"We're gonna do a full 90-minute Blues Brothers show -- me and Danny kicking it with a 10-piece band, three horns, two guitars, a B-3 organ, three backup singers, harmonica players," Belushi said.  "Danny plays harmonies, I play harmonica.  ...And the great news is Curtis Salgado is playing before us."

A Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight.  --RoadJake

Blues Brothers All Over Joliet This Weekend (Well, at the Prison Anyway)-- Part 2

The whole Blues Brothers Con is being hosted by the Joliet Area Historical Museum.

Today, you can hear the sounds of Toronzo Cannon and Curtis Salgado.  (I am listening to Curtis Salgado right now on You Tube.  How'd I ever miss him?  Some great blues and reminds me of St. Paul & the Broken Bones.  And, he has a definite connection to the movie "Blues Brothers" as the film's character "Curtis," played by Cab Calloway, is named after him.  

Other convention attractions will be a vintage car show featuring the Chicago Bluesmobile, Mount Prospect's Pre-Bluesmobile, vintage Chicago police cars and Illinois State vehicles from the film era (1980), Blues Brothers merchandise, live country and western music from Bob's Country Bunker Beer Garden (hopefully with a chicken wire cage and please remember they have both kinds of music: country and western.)

Also, food at the Maxwell Street Market pop-up.  And art demonstrations and repurposed artwork from the damaged areas of the Joliet Prison.

Plus, today, the Blues Brothers band will play a 90 minute set, starring Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belshi as well as original band members Thomas "Bones" Malone and Steve Cropper

--RoadBlues

Blues Brothers All Over Joliet This Weekend-- Part 1: 'They're Baaaack and On a Mission from ?'

From the August 18, 2022, Chicago Tribune "Jum Belushi fully prepped for return as 'Joliet' Jake" by Darcel Rockett.

The inaugural Blues Brothers Con is just a few hours away now.  Are you ready to "Shake a Tailfeather," get that old-time religion or find out why there is chicken wire on the stage at Bob's Country Bunker?

If so, you need to be in Joliet, just a bit off good old Route 66.  In a world where comic books, TV shows and movies get their conventions, the 1980s movie "Blues Brothers" finally gets its own.

I have already written about it in this blog, but here is some more on it.  It will take place at the Old Joliet Prison on August 19 and 20.   Of course, this place also served as the introduction of the movie where Joliet Jake (John Belushi) is walking the corridor and meets brother Dan Aykroyd in the Bluesmobile outside.

I must admit that "Blues Brothers" is my second all-time favorite film after "Animal House."

--RoadBrother

Looking for Craft Beer on Illinois Route 66-- Part 3: McGrain Brewing, Elder Brewing and Route 66 Old School Brewing

**  McGRAIN BREWING COMPANY, Joliet

50 East Jefferson Street,#106

In Joliet's historic downtown in the old train station turned brewpub with a breathtaking, turn-of-the-century facade.  Names of some of the brews reflect Joliet's history.  

13 craft beers on tap at any given time.  A full menu as well.

**  ELDER BREWING COMPANY, Joliet

218 Cass St,

Featuring over 14 on-tap selections as well as some canned beer.  Popcorn's always free and food available from nearby restaurants.

**  ROUTE 66 OLD SCHOOL BREWING, Wilmington

110 Bridge Street

Hey, we even like the name.  Run by a solver medal master brewer.  12-tap beers.

--RoadBrew

Looking for Route 66 Craft Beer in Illinois-- Part 2: Miskatonic Brewing and Will County Brewing

Some more places for craft beer along and near Route 66 in Illinois.

**  MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY

1000 N. Frontage Road, Unit C, Darien

This is an H.P. Lovecraft-inspired brewery for fans of horror and the macabre, plus if you like small-batch beer.  This is hidden in an industrial area just off Route 66.

They offer upsome of the finest brews along the Mother Road.

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**  WILL COUNTY BREWING COMPANY

1142 Jefferson Street, Shorewood

Over 16 craft beers on tap, including cider.  Easy to find from Route 66. Wide selection of revolving beers along with a large bar, tasting room and visible production area.

--RoadDrinker

Looking for Route 66 Craft Beer in Illinois-- Part 1: Flapjack Brewery and Black Horizon Brweing

From the May 21, 2022, Northwest Herald (McHenry County, Illinois) "First Hundred Miles: Toast Illinois Craft Beer Week along Route 66" by Ryan Searl.

**  FLAPJACK BREWERY

6833 Stanley Avenue, Berwyn

Also wood-fired pizza  A wide variety of small-batch beers.  A revolving tap from hoppy IPAs to coffee stouts.

**  BLACK HORIZON BREWING CO.

7560 S. Quincy Street, Willowbrook

Dubbed  "a small microbrewery," has award-winning, barrel-aged beer. Features a rotating variety of new and old favorites.

I think good buddy Denny Gibson might be interested in this.  He has visited upwards of a thousand microbreweries in his travels.

--RoadBeer

Along66, July 2022: The Blues Brothers at Joliet Prison August 19 and 20

JULY 6

Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi to perform next month at the Old Joliet Prison in Joliet, Illinois.  The proceeds will benefit the Joliet Area Historical Museum.

It will be a two-day event, August 19 and 20.

There will be a free screening of the movie "Blues Brothers" where, of course Jake was incarcerated before his release in the opening of the movie.  (My second all-time favorite movie after "Animal House.")

There will also be other entertainment and food.

Dan Aykroyd was an original Blues Brother.  Other Blues Brother experiences which will be offered are  Maxwell Street and Bob's Country Bunker, derived from the movie.  Also a religious service at the Triple Rock Baptist Church.

Also, a Bluesmobile car show.

Organizers would like attendees to dress up Blues Brothers fashion.

$60 for a two-day pass for adults, $20 for children.

The prison's historic walls were built in 1858 and it closed in 2004.

Sounds Like a Great Time.  --RoadBrother

2021 Endangered Illinois Sites-- Part 4: Scott Foresman, Havana, Joliet, Green Book

**  SCOTT FORESMAN HEADQUARTERS, Glenview.

Midcentury  modern design, built 1966 for the textbook publishing business.

**  HAVANA WATER TOWER,  Havana.  

Vuilt 1889.  It needs extensive work,top to bottom.

**  JOLIET STEEL MILL MAIN OFFICE, Joliet

139-year-old building has been very neglected

**  GREEN BOOK SITES

Already discussed.

How Many Green Book Sites Remain?  --RoadDog

Some Other Illinois Endangered Sites-- Part 3: Chicago, Cicero, Decatur and East St. Louis

**  Altgeld Gardens Shop Building and School Buildings C and E in Chicago.   Known as the "Up-Top", the wavy roofed  retail building of the Chicago Housing Authority's Altgeld Gardens housing complex is privately owned

**  James R. Thompson Center, Chicago.  It has been on the endangered list for a long time

**  Klas Restaurant, Cicero.  Vacant and up for sale on Cermack Road long served as an anchor for the Czech culture in the region

**  Illinois Terminal Interurban Station, Decatur.  It was first a rail station and then  a church.  Built in 1931.

**  Broadview Hotel, East St. Louis.  Built in 1927, the hotel has fallen into disrepair but could be used as more than 100 housing units for seniors.

--RoadDog

Illinois Endangered Sites 2021-- Part 2: About Those 'Green Book' Sites

"The Negro Motorist Green Book"  (called Green Book for the author's name) directed readers to lodging, dining and service options that would be friendly to black travelers, sometimes including private homes or out-of-the-way establishments that could be easily lost to disrepair or demolition without their past role on America's racial apartheid system being noted.  (It was so sad that this happened at all.)

"One of the reasons we wanted to highlight the 'Green Book' sites is because of how much work still needs to be done," said Frank Butterfield, director of the group's Springfield office.  "Initial research shows more than 250 sites from the 'Green Book' on Illinois, but how many of those remain is unclear.  We really want to highlight the stories of those who visited or operated these places."

To that end, the group is asking for "citizen researchers" to help it take stock of the long list of locations. Some are likely to be in disrepair or even long gone, demolished by owners who might not have known they had the deed to a piece of history.

The process could be as simple as driving by a site near someone's house and reporting whether it is still standing and occupied.  Anyone interested in aiding the project, or whom knows those whom operated or patronized "Green Book" businesses, is encouraged to reach out to Butterfield.

--RoadDog

Illinois Most Endangered Sites 2021: The Thompson Center and 'Green Book'

From the May 6, 2022, Chicago Tribune "Endangered history:  From 'Green Book' sites to Thompson Center" by Charles j. Johnson.

They didn't list the 11 Most-Endangered Places in 2020 for some reason, but the Landmarks Illinois folks released their list of nine places, six of them in the Chicago and suburban counties.

Chicago's James R. Thompson Center made the list for the fourth consecutive time.  It is not known what will happen to the 1985 Loop building designed by Helmut Jahn.  (Just recently it appears that Amazon bought it.)

The rest of the list doesn't just include big downtown buildings but also more humble locations that hold enormous cultural significance.

Making the list for the first time are the state's "Green Book" sites.  The "Negro Motorist Green Book" was published between the 1930s and the 1960s as a guide for black people who faced refusal of service and the threat of violence in some areas while traveling, including Illinois in so-called "Sundown Towns" where a black person would be in serious trouble if they were still in town after the sun went down.

The guidebook was the title of the 2018 feature film.

--RoadDog

Along66, July 2022: The Lodge Off 66 in Illinois

I take these Along66 blog entries from what I consider to be the best source of information on our favorite road, Route 66 News blog.  It has entries every day with pictures and a lot more that what I write about.  I only choose stories of special interest to me.

JULY 2

One of Logan County's (Illinois) oldest bars has been renamed The Lodge Off 66.

It is located six miles off the nearest Route 66 alignment at 2265 900th Avenue in Hartsburg, Illinois (pop. 314).

It has ties to bootlegging during Prohibition.  Al Capone visited the place.

It doesn't look like much on the outside, but the inside s a whole different story.  Sounds like Sundays are a real lot of fun.

It is six miles from Lincoln, Illinois.

--RoadDog

Along66, June 2022: The Chelsea Underpass and the Boots Court Motel

JUNE 29

Route 66 pedestrian underpass in Chelsea, Oklahoma, has reopened for the public.

Vandalism forced its closure a year ago.  It was refurbishd in 2011 with a Route 66 mural.

Route 66 was so busy that the town built it so locals could safely get to the other side of the four lane highway.

There are also pedestrian tunnels on Route 66 in Reno, Oklahoma, and Sayre, Oklahoma.  Also a filled in tunnel is in Odell, Illinois.

JUNE 30

A TV station has taken a look at the renovations to the Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri.  The station is KSN-TV.

They are hoping to have it open again the town's Maple Leaf Festival in October.

It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Liz and I were able to stay there  when the gals came in and redid the place.

--RoadDog

Along66, June 2022: Get a Sneak Look at the Red Cedar Inn

JUNE 23

The Route 66 Association of Missouri's 2022 Motor Tour will now include an exclusive tour of the Red Cedar Inn in Pacific, Missouri.

The former famous restaurant is being convereted into a visitors center, museum and genealogy site.

The tour will be September 23-25 and will run from St. Louis to Lebanon, Missouri.  Cost is $50 for adults.

The Red Cedar Inn was built in 1932 by the Smith Brothers and closed abruptly in 2005.  It is on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

The city of Pacific purchased it in 2017.  In 2020, the Missouri Association assisted in the restoration of the place's neon sign.

Liz and I had planned to have a bite in the place back when we first "found" Route 66 in 2002, but didn't go to it on a couple occasions, and then it was closed.  I always wanted to go into the building so now's a chance.

--RoadDog

37 Years Ago, Route 66 Ended in Joplin, Missouri (the Last Stretch of It in the State)

Frm the July 24, 2022,  KOAM News by Shannon Becker.

On July 24, 1985, the last Route 66 signs came down in Missouri with no ceremony around Joplin.  The other Route 66 shields between Joplin and St. Louis had already been removed by 1977.

The Joplin area was the final portion of  the historic route in Missouri to remove the 66 shields, 37 years ago.

Of course, we already knew that we are coming up on the centennial of the Mother Road's establishment.  It was one of the original U.S. Highways and wasn't paved all the way until 1938.

What caused the death of Route 66 was President Dwight D. Eisenhower's Federal Interstate Highway System.

No single interstate road was designated to replace it.  Route 66  is Interstate 55 from Chicago to  St. Louis, I-44  to Oklahoma City and I-40 to California.

Some states have kept the 66 designation, albeit as state roads.  Missouri, Routes 366, 266 and 66 are all original sections of the highway.

So Sad.  --Road66

Along66, June 2022: Oklahoma Trip Guide, Route 66 Museum of Oklahoma and Doc's Just Off 66

JUNE 15

The latest Oklahoma Route 66 Association Trip Guide is now available.  It is their 2022-2023 edition.  It is free and you can order it or pick it up at many places along the Mother Road in that state.

We have used it many times.  A great source of information and directions.

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JUNE  20

The Route 66 Museum on Clinton, Oklahoma, will be hosting the Oklahoma Hall of Fame inductions and will also feature the Jerry McClanahan photo show.  

Induction is held every two years.

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JUNE 21

Doc;s Just Off 66 in Girard, Illinois, formerly Doc's Soda Fountain has opened to the public.

They have done extensive remodeling and have all-new menus.  They will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 am to 8 pm daily.

A Must Stop.  --RoadDog

Along66, June, 2022: The Will Rogers Museum and 'The World's Ugliest Court House'

JUNE 9

The Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore, Oklahoma, is to undergo a $14 million expansion and renovation.  It opened in 1938 and this is the first time major work has been done on it since then.

There will be new exhibits including one featuring movie posetrs from the 1920s and 1930s, including some of Will Rogers' films.

They want to have it all done by 2026, the 100th anniversary of you-know-what.

It is about a mile off Route 66.

Like I Said Before, You Can Always Use More Museums and Neon.

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JUNE 14

"The World's Ugliest Court House" is on Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois, and has been placed on Landmarks Illinois' Endangered List.

The Will County Court House is located on the southbound lanes of an alignment of Route 66.

It was built in 1969 and is in danger of demolition since the county is not showing any interest in it these days.

The original 1887 court house was torn down when they built this one.

It sure is an ugly structure, though.

--RoadDog

Welcome to DeKalb (Illinois) Arches Built in 1922

July 1922.

"Through the efforts of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce the large arch west of DeKalb on the Lincoln Highway will be completed within the next few days.

"The area bearing the inscription "DEKALB" will be identicle to the one  eracted at the eastern entrance to DeKalb a few weeks ago.  When finished,  the two arches will make the entrances to DeKalb very interesting."

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They are no longer there, but it would be neat to have them reconstructed.  The arch in Dixon looks quite impressive.

--RoadDog

Hey, a 2 Cent Drop in Gas! (Back in 1922)

From the July 20, 2022, Midweek "Looking Back" for DeKalb County, Illinois.

July 20, 1922

"Two cents a gallon is the drop in price announced today by the Standard Oil Company that is effective today.  This will bring the price of fuel to 23.2 cents per gallon.

"The announcement will be greeted with much joy by the many tourists and people planning to take auto trips.

"The former price had been effective for several months and many people thought it had been fixed as a standard price.    The drop will be a big saving to many people."

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You know what they say about gas and taxes.  Sadly, that's about what it drops here in July 2022, about 2 cents a gallon every 3-4 days.  It sure went up to $6 quite quickly.

And a 2 cent drop from 25 cents is a bit different from a 2 cent drop from $5.60.

Even Back Then.  --RoadGas

How Much Does It Cost to Ferry Cross Lake Michigan?

I have been writing about places to go and things to do in and around the two places to which the SS Badger sails, Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  And, there sure is a lot to do.

But. that brings to mind the question about how much does it cost?

Both your vehicle and passengers have to pay a fee.

VEHICLES:  $78 one way, $140 round trip.

ADULTS:  $71 one way,  $129 round trip.

SENIORS:  $64 one way, $116 round trip.

There is an additional $7 security fee.

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DEPARTURES May 12 to October 16

Ludington (Eastern Time)  9:00 a.m.   Arrive Manitowoc (Central Time)  12:00 p.m.

Manitowoc   2:00 p.m.     Arrive Ludington   7:00 p.m.

All Aboard.  --RoadShip

Two Other Things to See in Manitowoc

From Wikipedia.

**  WISCONSIN MARITIME MUSEUM

The museum was founded in the 1960s by former submariners and civic people to  commemorate the role the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company played in building 28 Gato and  Balao-class sunmarines during World War II.  

In 1970, the U.S. Navy donated  the USS Cobia to the museum.  The Cobia is a Gato-class submarine like those constructed in Manitowoc  (but it was built in Groton, Connecticut, by the Electric Boat Company).

**  EIGHTH STREET HISTORIC   DISTRICT

Manitowoc's old downtown with many historic buildings.

**  A PIECE OF THE RUSSIAN SPUTNIK 4 SOVIET SPACE SATELLITE

On  September 5, 1962, a 20-pound piece of the 7 ton Sputnik 4 crashed  in North 8th Street.  A cast was made of the original fragment before the Soviets claimed it and is displayed at the Rahr Art Museum in  town.  A metal ring marks the location of where it landed.

Someone jokingly remarked that they should have a festival  in the crash's honor and the first one was, Sputnikfest, held in 2008.  The 2022 edition will be held Saturday, September 10 from noon to 9 p.m..

Keep An Eye to the Sky.  --RoadNik

Ferry Cross Lake Michigan-- Part 2: Some More Things to Do Around Manitowoc, Wisconsin (Try a 'Dead and Breakfast'for a Change)

DEAD BY DAWN  in downtown Manitowoc.  Do not expect a restful sleep here.  Innkeepers turn every "dead and breakfast" stay into a Halloween-style haunting in an 1851 building  that has a paranormal history.

Reserve a seat at the Shrunken Head Bar to learn more.  Maybe even have a drink if you're not too scared.

WEST OF THE LAKE GARDEN:  Admission is free and explore six acres on a former street car right-of-way in Manitowoc.  It is a pretty and restful place to while away an afternoon.

HAMILTON WOOD TYPE AND PRINTING MUSEUM in Two Rivers, studies,preserves and prints with type made from wood.  No other museum is devoted to wood type and Hamilton Manuafacturing was the nation's largest producer of it.

--RoadDog

Ferry Cross Lake Michigan, Things to Do in Manitowoc, Wi.--Part 1: Art, Golf and a Farm

On the other side of Lake Michigan from Ludington as the ferry (SS Badger) runs, is Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Here are some things there to experience:

**  The ART PRESERVE, near Sheboygan is the world's first museum devoted to artist0built environments.  Most were made by artists without formal art training.  One of them is the James Tellen Sculpture Park near lakeside Kohler-Andrae State Park.

**  WHISTLING STRAITS, site of golfing's 2021 Ryder Cup is 560 acres along the Lake Michigan shore is near Haven.  You can tee off or dine at the golf course restaurant with all those gorgeous views.

**  FARM WISCONSIN DISCOVERY CENTER near Manitowoc is all about field to farm heritage production and diversity.  There are interactive exhibits, a gift ship and a cafe.  Admission includes a dairy farm tour.

--RoadDog

Ferry Cross the Lake, Some More Things in Ludington, Mi.-- Part 2: Ice Cream, Cheeseburgers and Dune Buggies

HOUSE OF FLAVORS:  Dip into some fresh-as-it-gets ice cream here in downtown Ludington.  This third-generation family business makes 25 million gallons of the stuff annually right next door to their place.

VALUE OF SPORTS at WHITE PINE VILLAGE:  Artifacts and stories of extraordinary athletes are more about character and life lessons than competition results.  Thirty historic buildings on site at the White Pine Village.

MAC WOOD'S DUNE RIDES:   Operating for 92 years.  You get open-air and up-close views of Michigan's sand dunes.  Or you can rent a vehicle in Silver Lake  -- aka "Dune Town" to explore on your own.

COUNTRY DAIRY:  Located about half way between Ludington and Muskegon (where the Lake Express, the other ferry across the lake, ferry docks in Michigan.    Try the cheeseburgers at this 4th generation business near New Era.  Everything is made with the farm's meat and cheese.  Orders come with a free pint of milk.  Cafe and market carries a Christian theme.  Farm tours are offered.

I Need My Milk.  --RoadBurger

Ferry Cross the Lake on Da Badger: What to See and Do in Ludington, Mi.-- Part 1

BORTELL'S FISHERIES:  A 15-minute drive from Ludington is a rural, 6th generation family business selling smoked and fried fish sold by the pound.  Seating is outside picnic tables.

SUMMIT PARK: Give the half-pound of smelt with fries a shot and watch the sunset.

CARTIER MANSION:  A room at the converted stable of the 1905 mansion built for a lumber baron and have breakfast featuring a sausage made with the chef's 22-ingredients.

SABLE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS ASSOCIATION:  Members are eligible to tend a Lake Michigan Lighthouse for one or two weeks.   Membership costs $60 for one person, or $100 for a family.  That includes free admission to four lights:  Big Sable, Little Sable, Ludington and White River.

That Would Be Interesting to Tend a Lighthouse.   But, I Don't Know About Those Stairs.  --RoadDog

Ferry Cross the Lake (Michigan)-- Part 4: Last of a Kind

Both the Badger and Spartan were were built with reinforced hull for ice-breaking. It was originally used to carry railroad cars, passengers and cars between the two sides of the lake all year long.  Today the ferry connects the segments of U.S. Highway 10 between the two cities  from May to October.

Launched  September 6, 1952, the SS Badger entered service March 21, 1953,  for the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway.

The railroad car ferry service concept on Lake Michigan was facing serious economic problems in the 1980s and by November 1988 the Badger was the only vessel running.  In 1990, the Badger was laid up

After sitting idle for a year, the Badger and two other ferries were purchased by  Charles F. Conrad who undertook a major overhaul  of the ship to refit itfor passenger and car service only.

The Badger is the last  large coal-burning  steamship in the United States and is the last vessel on the Great Lakes to be powered by Skinner Unaflow engines.

On average, the Badger completes a trip across Lake Michigan in four hours, covering 60 miles.

--RoadFerry

Ferry Cross the Lake-- Part 3: On Da Badger

Gerry and the Pacemakers used to "Ferry Cross the Mersey," well you can ferry across the lake (as in Michigan) on the ferry.  As in the SS Badger.

Also, there is a song about it.  Go to You Tube and check out the Happy Schnapps Combo's "On Da Badger."

From Wikipedia.

SS BADGER is a pasenger/car ferry that has been in service on Lake Michigan since 1953.  Currently  the ship shuttles between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowac, Wisconsin, a distance of 62 miles and connects US Highway 10 between those two cities.

It is the last coal-fired passenger vessel operating on the Great Lakes and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016.

The ship is named for the University of Wisconsin's athletic teams, the Badgers.

It runs on a seasonal basis between May and October.

It was constructed as a rail car ferry in 1952 by the Christy Corporation of  Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and she had a sister ship, the SS Spartan.  (The Spartan was named after the athletic teams of Michigan State.)

--RoadBadger

Ferry Cross the Lake-- Part 2: U.S. Highway 10 Crosses Lake Michigan on the SS Badger

The route the SS Badger takes across Lake Michigan is an extension of U.S. Highway 10.  This highway now runs from North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin to Michigan.  At one time it ran from Detroit, Michigan all the way through the current states and then through Montana, the Idaho Panhandle to Seattle, Washington, but lost most of its length as interstates (I-90 and I-94) were built on its right-of-way.

This is roughly the same route that U.S. Highway 12 covers.

It used to be broken into two segments by Lake Michigan, but in 2015, the ferry SS Badger between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin,  was officially designated as part of the highway.  The ferry operates from May to October.

The eastern terminus of US-10 is in Bay City, Michigan, and the western is  is in the city of West Fargo, North Dakota at the interchange with I-94.

--RoadDog

Ferry Cross the Lake (Michigan) and Avoiding Chicago

From the June 26, 2022, Chicago Tribune "Ferry Fun:  Lake Michigan car ferries make for enjoyable Midwest getaways, plus 16 things to do once you land" by Mary Bergin.

If you want to take a non-interstate drive around Lake Michigan and follow the shoreline, that easily exceeds 1,000 miles and 18 hours of road-driving time.  That is no vacation for the driver or travelers low in leisure time.

But, there is another option available.  Take the ferry, or, in this case, two ferries, to cross Lake Michigan.  This is a great and different way to make the tour and cut into some if that driving time.  And especially time lost by driving through or around Chicago.

You can sail one or both ways across the lake on the SS Badger, a National Historic Landmark, that is the nation's last coal-fired passenger steamship.    This ferry goes between Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and Ludington, Michigan.

Instead of watching the roads and hazards, you can play bingo, watch movies, nap in a stateroom or roam around the ship and visit the on board museum and gift ship.  Or, you can just gaze at the lake, catch some rays and avoid getting seasick.

The other ferry is the Lake Express which goes between Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Muskegon, Michigan.

--RoadDogFerry

Along66, June 2022: A New Neon Sign in Tulsa and the Will Rogers Museum

JUNE 8

Josey Records' animated neon sign in Tulsa is the 40th business to receive a grant under the city's Route 66 grant program.

It is at 1020 S. Rockford Avenue at East 11th Street (Route 66).

That Tulsa is one gung-ho Route 66 city!!  It is always GOOD to have more neon!!

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JUNE 9

The Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore, Oklahoma, is to undergo a $14 million expansion and renovation.  It opened in 1938 and this is the first time this has happened since then.

It will feature new exhibits.  One is a poster collection from the 1920s and 1930s including some of his films.

They are trying to have it completed by 2026, the 100th anniversary of the road.

But, You Knew That Already.  --RoadDog

Along66, June 2022: Casper's Diner and a Packard Ride in Sapulpa

JUNE 2

Casper's Diner to move out of downtown quonset hut to another location in Springfield, Missouri.

They are  moving from 601 W. Walnut Street and will reopen in the old Anton's Coffee Shop on 937 S. Gemstone in late summer or early fall.

It first opened in 1909 and is one of the oldest restaurants.  It has only, however, been in the quonset hut for 37 of those years.  One of its earlier locations was at 1901 Gemstone.

It advertises itself as "The Oldest Diner on Route 66" but is actually located two blocks from it.  (Probably why I never saw it before.)  Also, Ike's Chili in Tulsa started in 1908.

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JUNE 5

The Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, is offering rides in their century old Packard.  The drive goes for a half hour and costs $11 a head.

Their Packard has long been on display at the place.  Packards are considered one of the finest cars ever made.

The museum also has that new 66-ft tall faux gasoline pump.

Thinking about taking a ride next time through and having a bite to eat at Casper's.

--RoadDog

Along66, May/June 2022: Route 66 Commission in Oklahoma, the Plainsman Coffeeshop Sign

I take these from the Route 66 News blog site.  This site has daily updates about what is going on along our favorite old road.  Its entries are longer and even have pictures.  I only take the stories of most interest to me.  I highly recommend you visit the site for a better knowledge.

MAY 31

The Oklahoma Route 66 Commission became law after the legislature overrode the governor's veto.  Good for them.

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JUNE 1

The Plainsman Coffee Shop neon sign in Holbrook, Arizona, has been taken down.  The place has been long-closed, 2009.  It is located at 1001 W. Hopi Drive (Route 66.

The place was built in 1966.

It didn't seem that anyone really knows who got the sign.

I am hoping some group that will keep it so that people can see it.  I hate when they go into private collections.

--RoadDog

Getaway to Lebanon, Missouri-- Part 2: And Don't Forget the Munger-Moss

**  Hike at Bennett Springs State Park

**  Nostalgic eats at  Swiss Inn Drive In.  Everything is essentially the way it was 55 years ago.

**  Antiquing along the Antique Trail to places like the Vintage Flower Market, Route 66  Antique Mall and  Marketplace or The Rooster Marketplace and then grab a  brown bag lunch special and a side at Wrink's Market.

**  Make it a weekend and stay at the Manor House Inn, formerly the Lenz HoMoTel with six  memorable rooms to stay in.  (I imagine a B&B.)

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Of course, they didn't say anything about what I consider the #1 attraction in town and that would be the Munger-Moss Motel.

--RoadDog

Getaway to Lebanon, Missouri

From the July 202 417 Magazine by Jamie Thomas and  Zachary Raines.

That great Route 66 town in Missouri.

A list of things-to-do while you're there.

**    Boswell Park:  Three large Route 66 murals, Camp Joy cabin and, of course, the Nelson Dream Fountain.

**  Route 66 Museum and Research Center:  In the Lebanon-Laclede County Library.  Recreations and lots of Route 66 history.

**   Mother's Garden:    Small park with fountains and walkways.

**  June  & Beyond Boutique:  An amazing variety of clothes.

**  Madison Street Grill:    Lunch or dinner.  All sorts of great steaks and seafood.

**  Float the Niangua River:    Four to 14 miles, two to eight hour trips.

--RoadDog

Along66, May 2022: Motels Closing in Needles and the Black Experience on Route 66 Pre-1960s

MAY 27

Two Route 66 motels in Needles are forced to close within a year.

The River Valley Inn on 66 has been cited with unsafe conditions.  It was built in 1963.

Also the Best Motel (which is not so best these days).

Both were red-tagged last June and showed no improvement.

Sad when a motel has to close, but sometimes there is no alternative.

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MAY 30

Interactive Metaverse Exhibit os coming to Springfield, Illinois, and will involve the Negro Green Book.  It will be located in a former Texaco station at 737 E. Cook Street, now called Route History Museum.

It will primarily be about the experiences Blacks living along Route 66 and those traveling on it back before the 1960s which was not such a wonderful thing for them.  

The Negro Green Book, published from the 1930s to 1960s, listed establishments which would serve them and where they would not receive racist treatment.  It also listed "Sundown Towns" where a black person could not be after sundown.

A Sad Chapter in Our History.  --RoadDog

Time for Some More Summer Music- Part 4: 'Surfin' USA'

Let's keep that fun feeling going.  One more round of summer songs.

SUMMER BREEZE--  Seals & Crofts

BUS STOP--  Hollies   One of my favorite British Invasion bands.

WAKE UP SUNSHINE--   Chicago

ONE SUMMER DREAM--  ELO

SUMMERTIME--  Big Brother & the Holding Company    You know, Janis.

SITTING IN THE MIDDAY SUN--  Kinks

SURFIN' USA--  Beach Boys

SUMMER MEANS FUN--  Bruce & Terry

SUMMER IN THE CITY--  Lovin' Spoonful

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "All That Summer We Enjoyed It, Wind And Rain And Shine."  Answe below.  --RoadDog

"Bus Stop"

Time for Some Summer Music-- Part 3: 'Beach Baby' and Our Retirement Baby, Bob Stroud

DO IT AGAIN--  Beach Boys

BEACH BABY--  First Class--

SUMMER--  War

SUMMER RAIN--  Johnny Rivers

STREET FIGHTING MAN--  Rolling Stones

YOU TOOK THE WORDS RIGHT OUT OF MY MOUTH (HOT SUMMER NIGHTS)--  Meatloaf

Sad that we only have two more days left before Bob Stroud retires from full time radio deejaying at Chicago's WDRV, 97.1 FM, the Drive.  However, he will still be doing his Ten at Ten, One 45 at 1:45 and Rock and Roll Roots which he will record.  So, we won't be wholly without Bob.

Hopefully he will also do his "Beat Bob Stroud" bit with Sherman and Tingle where people try to beat his musical knowledge and that isn't very easy.

Happy Retirement Bob Stroud.

--RoadStroud

Time for Some Summer Music-- Part 2: 'In the Summertime'

Continuing with Bob Stroud's Roots Salute to Summer.

IN THE SUMMERTIME--  Mungo Jerry    My all-time favorite summer song.

PIPELINE--  Chantays

SUNSHINE SUPERMAN--  Donovan

HOT SUMMER DAY--  It's A Beautiful Day

SCHOOL'S OUT--  Alice Cooper    This was the name of out last boat.  Very appropriate since we were both teachers.  When we retired, the name was changed to "School's Out...Forever!"

SUMMERTIME BLUES--  Who

SUNNY GIRLFRIEND--  Monkees

GOOD DAY SUNSHINE--  Beatles

DAYDREAM--  Lovin' Spoonful

SUMMERTIME--  Billy Stewart

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "Well We Got No Choice All The Girls And Boys."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"School's Out"

Time for Some Summer Music-- Part 1: 'Catch a Wave'

Yesterday, Bob Stroud Saluted Summer on his Rock and Roll Roots show on Chicago's WDRV, 97.1 FM, Classic Rock station, the Drive.

Always means summer to me and enjoyed listening to it.

Here are the songs he played:

DANCING IN THE STREETS--  Martha & the Vandellas

SPILL THE WINE--  Eric Burdon & War

SATURDAY IN THE PARK--  Chicago

SUNNY DAYS--  Lighthouse

HOT FUN IN THE SUMMERTIME--  Sly & the Family Stone

CATCH A WAVE--  Beach Boys   Well, ya gotta play something by them.

HEATWAVE--  Linda Ronstadt      My all-time favorite female singer.

SUNNY AFTERNOON--  Kinks

MR.  BLUE SKY--  ELO

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "People Dancing, People Laughing, A Man Seeling Ice Cream."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Saturday In the Park"

 

Along66, May 2022: New Motel in Lebanon and the Sunset Motel in Villa Ridge for Sale

MAY 24

The old Midwest Inn in Lebanon, Missouri's west side has been renovated and renamed the Maple Tree Inn.

It is located at 2125 W. Elm Street (Route 66).  

Rooms cost $75. 

Of course, when we're in Lebanon, Missouri, we are kind of most likely to stay with Ramona at the Munger-Moss.  We really need to get back there soon.

***********************************

MAY 25

Sunset Motel in Villa Ridge, Missouri, has been put up for sale for $1.1 million.

Theyv are noted for that wonderful neon sign.

It has 16 units, including a train caboose (I've never seen that).  Three units are currently leased for $550 a month.  It all comes on 17.5 acres.

It opened in 1945 and the sign was restored in 2009.

--RoadDog