Springfield's Curve Inn-- Partying on Route 66 Since 1932-- Part 1

That is, Springfield, Illinois. So named today for the curve Route 66 took by the place as the road left the city heading southward toward St. Louis.

It was built in 1932 and called Copp's Corner and owned by the Copp family until 1945. In that year, Guido Manci bought it and renamed it the Curve Inn. Guido's nephew Louie Manci currently owns Louie's on Stanton Avenue in Springfield (looks like a place we'll have to check out the next time we're there).

There was also a grocery store and gas station next door (where McDonald's is today?). Just to the north, there was a packing plant called Pegwill Packing. Workers used to come over for a drink during breaks.

Illegal gambling as well as prostitution took place on the premises. Customers would ring a buzzer at the bottom of the back stairs to gain admittance to the ladies upstairs.

More tomorrow.

Still a Good Place to Slake Your Thirst. RoadDog