Frankly, my dear...

theramblers88
Jul 8, 2019
2 min read

Updated: Oct 26, 2019

June 25th

Today is my birthday, so happy birthday to me! This morning we actually headed south, and a bit further off the route to do a quick trip into Arkansas. I have not been to this state before and since we were less than 10 minutes away, we had to drive down and stretch our legs a little in this state. I now am only missing Connecticut and Oregon. One day....sigh!

We journeyed back to The Mother Road via Springfield, Missouri and came upon Gary’s Gay Parita Sinclair Filling Station in Everton. We met the owners, Barb and George, and sat a spell on the front porch. They had so many stories to tell about Route 66. And what a place. It was a beautifully restored gas station, plus so much other Route 66 memorabilia from signs to pumps to cars, and so much more. It was a wonderful way to spend some time and chit-chat.

Just down the road, Spencer. It’s a “ghost” town now. However, it’s currently under restoration. A couple purchased the old Phillips 66 gas station, garage, cafe, and barbershop and are making it Route 66 ready.

Next stop, a quirky, eclectic “town” called Red Oak II, near Carthage. Now you won’t find this “town” on any map because it is on renowned artist and sculptor Lowell Davis’ property. After WWII, Mr. Davis found out his town was to be razed and bought many of the buildings, homes, shops, diners, and even a church. Visitors are permitted to wander throughout his open air museum and take photos, too. What a place!

Well, off to Carthage, and a good night stay in the Boots Court Motel. This, too, is being restored, and only about 7 rooms are available. The rooms are done in period decor, complete with 40s and 50’s music playing on the old-timey radio. Since it was my birthday, we were lucky enough to book the same room where Clark Gable (a lover of Route 66) and Carole Lombard stayed. It was fun to imagine them standing in the same room.

What a way to end my birthday.

Until tomorrow......