TABLE OF CONTENTS
El Rancho Revival by Geoffrey Willis
Nuggets from Needles by Maggie McShan
Spirit of Route 66 Celebration by JoAnne Willis
Children's Author Relives Route 66 by Geoffrey Willis
Route 99 - A Friend In Need by Dan Mahnke
Trucking on Route 66 by Dan Mahnke
Summit Inn by Jim Munding
Needles Harvey Girls to be Honored by Bernice Morris
Party on the Bridge by Maggie Neil
Over the Road
- Illinois - Signage at last!
- Texas - Team Players
- New Mexico - Signage...almost!
- California - Route 66 Art Exhibit
Route 66 Rendezvous - San Bernardino
EL RANCHO REVIVAL
by Geoffrey Willis
For the second time in ten years, developer Rick Byers of Newport Beach, CA has
rejuvenated Barstow's landmark El Rancho Motel. On Thursday, July 21, '94 a grand opening
party complete with food, drink, and mariachis was thrown to celebrate the occasion. New
furniture, carpeting, and paint are now in place in new units; and swamp coolers have
replaced ailing air conditioners in most cases. The pool once again sparkles and its'
grand 100 ft. high neon sign has been completely restored.
It was built in 1947 entirely of railroad ties from the Tonapah and Tidewater Railroad.
It served employees of the Santa Fe Railroad and travelers on Route 66 until 1979 when it
was closed to the public and rented exclusively by the Santa Fe. In 1982 the Santa Fe
abandoned the motel. Having lost its' major long term tenant as well as the majority of
travelers to newer motels just off of I-40, El Rancho limped along until 1987 when Rick
Byers, who concentrates on restoring older properties, bought it. At a cost of $400,000;
it was entirely repainted, refurbished, and proudly reopened. Five short years later,
however, it had declined into a state of disrepair and neglect due to ineffective
management and hard times.
In the spring of '94 Byers bought the property again and promptly poured another
$300,000 into another restoration. This time is different in two major respects. El Rancho
now features the Historic Route 66 Visitors Center adjacent to the motel office. There you
will find maps, newsletters, and general tourist information geared specifically for those
following the Mother Road. The walls are filled with colorful paintings and drawings
evoking the atmosphere of the American West. No shortage of friendly and helpful
assistance here either. Motel employees seem anxious to show off their new hospitality
room. Each room door now displays a plaque which reads "World famous El Rancho Motel,
Historic Route 66." A huge glass and neon sign in the shape of a highway shield is
perched above the dining room proclaiming this historic landmark on old 66.
The second distinguishing aspect of this renovation is the emphasis on long-term
rentals. Although twenty-five poolside units will be reserved for overnight rentals, the
other seventy- six units including twenty-six with kitchenettes are being promoted for
senior residences. This is beneficial in two respects: 1) Re-establishing the long-term
rental base lost when the Santa Fe moved out, 2) Reducing wear and tear created by
transients and younger long-term renters.
Byers looks forward to the restoration of the Barstow Depot as the catalyst to the
revival of the historic downtown district. Roughly nine million dollars in federal, state,
and local money is in the pipeline to renovate the depot. Work is expected to begin this
fall and to be completed within a year's time. The depot will be developed as a
multi-function facility including office space, bed and breakfast, historic exhibits, and
memorabilia. The close proximity of these two historic landmarks to each other combined
with the lore of old Route 66 would seem to add up to a major revival for Barstow in the
foreseeable future.
NUGGETS FROM NEEDLES
by Maggie McShan
Needles Museum is on a section of Old 66, and travelers of the Mother Road often stop
here for information to aid them on their tour. A recent delightfully interesting visitor
was Knut Terklep from Norway. We were amazed that he chose this toasty time of year to
bike Route 66. He would attempt to do California and Arizona on this trek, and do the rest
at another time. Also he had a distant cousin to visit, Linda Acosta in San Dimas, Ca. She
was of the branch of his family who decided to stay here generations ago, while he was a
descendant of those who went back to Norway.
So he started from San Dimas Monday, July 18, and arrived in Needles five days later,
July 22nd. He spent the night at Ludlow on Wednesday, Goffs Thursday, and Needles KOA,
Friday. (Amazingly, the biker is equipped with tent, camping gear and emergency food and
water.) The longest desert stretch was from Ludlow to Goffs, but he found Buster (Roy's
Cafe) open at Amboy where he replenished water, and had a good visit. There had been a
prior arrangement that if he did not arrive at a certain point by 4 p.m. on Thursday,
Leslie at Cadiz vineyard and citrus office would send someone out with water to meet him,
but he made the trip fine. At Essex he found the public water fountain (faucet) and again
refilled containers. When he arrived at Goffs, Dennis and Jo Ann Casebier treated the
visitor royally. From Goff's Schoolhouse Jo Ann alerted me to expect the biker at the
museum on Friday. It is 30 miles from Goffs to Needles, all downhill. I watched for him
out the window and saw a well equipped bike stop at the Chamber of Commerce office a half
a block away first. Soon he was at the museum.
It happened a man from Jet Printing was there, and I introduced him, saying, "He
lives at Lake Havasu City, home of London Bridge." Knut was quite interested,
remarking that he had been on a tour of London, and the guide said, "Some crazy
American millionaire had bought the old bridge and set it up somewhere in America."
Our visitor wanted to see a photo of the reconstructed attraction. As luck would have it,
we have a few copies of the book, "New City, Old Bridge" by Roger A. Johnson,
1981, in our gift shop, so were able to show him what our bridge looks like. We explained
that the so-called "crazy millionaire" was Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. of McCulloch
chain saw fame. I covered the corner stone celebration for "Desert Star" when
Lord Mayor of London came over to officiate. Many of us then thought it was a crazy idea
too, but to the contrary. It was the grandest publicity stunt anyone ever heard of on the
desert and has been a boon to Lake Havasu City, a trademark, an icon.
Knut's face seemed very close to sunburn. He said he was tired and soon left to set up
at KOA, with promise to revisit on Saturday.
Bernice Morris and I work together on Saturday and had a fine visit with our new
Norwegian friend. We explained that Needles was a railroad town, now partly turned
recreational, and that we have our own tribe of Native Americans, the Fort Mojave Indians.
He took particular notice of some of their artifacts. In the gift shop he chose a pretty
blue necklace of Mojave beadwork as a gift for cousin Linda. We gave him a new Needles
map, a brochure of Bob Waldmire's place at Hackberry, AZ., and other items.
Tom Kelley of "Desert Star" came by and joined in the interview. Mr. Knut
Torklep said that he is 57 years old, and took up biking seven years ago for fun and
because he can see more of the country from a bike, saying, "I feel a part of the
landscape and environment."
Regarding this trip, Knut said he likes to follow a theme and a friend suggested Route
66. He said he is traveling west to east to avoid head winds. He bikes alone, and there is
no support car. He said group bikers are nearly always accompanied by what they call a
"meat wagon". He said that Linda has been much help in calling ahead, and that
all the people he met along the way have been wonderful.
"SPIRIT OF ROUTE 66 CELEBRATION"
..not just an annual dinner
by JoAnne Willis
May 21, 1994 was a happening day in the Route 66 town of Monrovia. Every year the
Monrovia Day Assn. sponsors several days events featuring the Monrovia Day Parade. We were
intrigued by the 1926 Aztec Hotel on an old Route 66 alignment, 311 W. Foothill Blvd. and
it happens that the parade begins right there. So this is where we showcased our event
whose focus was to pay tribute to all of the Route 66 communities in California. Our
objective was the sharing of their heritage and preservation concerns and efforts through
displays of photos, artifacts and literature. The hotel courtyard with fruit trees, roses,
and fountain patio made a lovely setting.
The day began with CHR66A President Geoffrey Willis presenting an Historic Route 66
sign to Elmer and Myra Davis, proprietors of the Aztec Hotel. The Mayor of Monrovia,
Robert Bartlett, dedicated the sign with the reading of a Proclamation. Assemblyman
Richard Mountjoy was also at hand along with boy scouts, CHR66A board members, and others
who had gathered for the parade. Following the parade a contingent of classic automobiles
lined the front of the hotel to draw attention to our afternoon event.
Thanks to the La Verne and Duarte Historical Societies for promoting our event in their
newsletters. Gaylen Beery of SOLVE " Save Old La Vernes Environment" donated an
interesting history book of his area which was presented to Jack Mount from Tuscon, AZ for
traveling the farthest to attend the dinner. Duarte was represented by Dorine and Irwin
Margiloff, current Director and Curator of their society's museum which they are looking
forward to revamping. Steve Baker of Monrovia Historical Society came in period clothes
complete with black tails, striped ascot and top hat. He and Mary Ann Otero had beautiful
pictures of Old Monrovia. They are active in preservation efforts which can be seen in the
charm of Monrovia today. Rick Faulkner of Upland Historical Preservation Society had a
very nice vertical display of photos which featured Victorian homes. They are aided by
fund raisers and were recently involved in a D-Day celebration at Chino airport. Bobbie
Battler and Pat Sullivan represented Glendora Preservation Foundation, Inc. They are hard
workers whose efforts included moving a farmhouse c. 1888 across a flood area. People
thought they were crazy, but they raised the necessary $12,000 moving fee by selling
rather smelly smudge pots. They invited us to visit Centennial Heritage Park, Glendora's
re-created working citrus grove. John Anicic, Jr. and company from Fontana Historical
Society had pictures of their latest efforts to hold onto a 1936 orange juice stand in the
shape of an orange. It's currently behind bars on a Wal-Mart lot on Foothill Blvd., but
they hope to eventually use it as a Rt. 66 information stand. Chinatown, once removed from
the current site of LA's Union Station is a famous community on Route 66. Sue Yee of the
Chinese Historical Society had literature about the struggles and triumphs of Chinatown.
They are cosponsors of the Sept. 17, 18 annual Moon Festival (see "Down the
Road"). Our Vice-president-East, Maggie McShan and her sister Ruth in a Route 66
patterned skirt and vest came all the way from Needles. They had a table full of photos
and literature. Maggie is President of Needles Regional Museum Assn. where there is much
focus on pioneering history, Indians and the railroad. Bob Hopper of the San Bernardino
Convention and Visitor's Bureau had a continuous play video event begins Sept. 8-18th.
Some Route 66 communities could not be present, but tables were set up to distribute their
brochures.
Bob Waldmire came all the way from Hackberry, AZ placing his pen and ink artwork under
rocks at an umbrella table, and of course his VW van, "the Unofficial Route 66 Mobile
Information Center" was an exhibit in itself. It had LA Times special reporter Ann
Griffith obtaining extra comments on the parking lot. Historian Steve Baker was impressed
to see his town of Monrovia on Bob's camper shell road map. Member Kevin Fleming displayed
an impressive collection of Rt. 66 postcards and matchbooks.
There was memorabilia sales by "Route 66 Clothing and Goods" and
"Buckles by Mike" and a few things by our own association, including the
beautiful book Robert Stacy-Judd, photos and drawings about the Aztec's architect. There
was pleasant live music and hot dogs.
We made full use of the hotel, which also put former president Dan Harlow everywhere.
Harlow put dialogue and music to video of the '92 Anniversary Shield Relay which he set up
in The Brass Elephant Bar for two showings. There were artistic displays in the lobby
which included Harlow's photo art of Route 66 images. Special thanks to Ric Rice who had
the 1992 Commemorative Shield on display. The Shield having icons of the eight Route 66
states was ceremoniously relayed from Chicago to Santa Monica for the 66th Anniversary
Rice also displayed some of his neon work such as the familiar Route 66 shield in pink and
blue, and an interesting longhorn skull with a pink neon 66 emerging from it. Old gas
pumps was the subject by photo artist Michele Krupkin.
By evening, dinner for eighty commenced in the Mayan Room. The food served buffet style
was very good. Our special guest speaker was Ermal Williamson, known to us as "Duke
of the High Desert," dressing and speaking as John Wayne. He delivered a speech about
Route 66 (actually it was written by our president, Geoffrey Willis, a "closet"
Wayne impersonator). Willis, Dan Harlow, and Dave Schelkle juggled raffling and
auctioneering. The CHR66A Merit Award was presented with much applause to Vice-president
East Maggie McShan who briefly took the stand. Maggie was followed by Cliff Walker,
Director of the Mojave River Valley Museum in Barstow. Walker displayed a prototype of
signs made to award five proprietors along Route 66 in Barstow for their renovation
efforts, including the El Rancho Hotel.
The evening ended with a slide presentation by Vice-president West Sara Salene Faulds
followed by :What America Means to Me" by "The Duke". You find it's dark
when you leave a long day's event. The final surprise was the twinkling white lights in
the romantic and peaceful courtyard before hitting the road.
Children's Author
Relives Route 66
by Geoffrey Willis
This October watch for the appearance of the Main Street Series, four books aimed at
young readers by noted author Susan Kirby. The series follows four decades in the history
of Route 66 through the experiences of Maggie, a character based on Kirby's mother-in-law.
"Lemonade Days" begins the series detailing Maggie's life in 1926 as a child
in Shirley, IL selling lemonade to thirsty workers building Route 66. In "Home for
Christmas," Maggie is a teenager and has moved to Oklahoma where her family runs a
gas station. It is set during the Great Depression and she witnesses the Dust Bowl
migration of displaced farmers moving west over the Mother Road. "Home Front
Hero," the third in the series, finds Maggie living in Missouri, now a wife and
mother. This book is based on Kirby's husband's childhood memories of Route 66 as a
military corridor during World War II. "Goodbye Desert Rose" takes place in
Oatman, AZ in 1953. It describes the economic impact on a small town when it is bypassed
by highway realignment.
Kirby looks forward to the success of these first four books in her Main Street Series
so that her publisher, Avon-Camelot, will give the green light for another four books.
This would allow one book for each state the famous road goes through.
Kirby grew up in Funk's Grove, IL greeting travelers to her family's maple syrup
business located on Route 66. She feels that identifying with a character living in a
given era makes history come alive for the reader and thus makes history interesting.
Conveying the importance of Route 66 in American history to youngsters has long been a
concern for many of our movement's gray haired enthusiasts. It is encouraging to see that
Susan Kirby has produced the Main Street Series toward that end.
San Bernardino Rendezvous
San Bernardino's fifth annual Route 66 Rendezvous has expanded to cover more days and
area than ever. The weekend of Friday, Sept. 9 thru Sept. 11 will feature an exciting
array of activities and attractions as a prelude to the big event the following weekend.
Friday the 9th an old fashioned car rally hits the streets of Southern California as
drivers from around the world gear up for "Rally Route 66". In classic and one
of a kind vehicles, racers will compete over backroads and biways throughout Southern
California and return to San Bernardino each night using only a time-of-day clock and
speedometer. Maps, stopwatches or computers are not allowed in this controlled speed
rally. Rally ends Sunday.
Saturday, Sept. 10 gets off and running at 8AM with the Rotary 10K Run and 5K Walk.
From 8-11AM Court Street Square will host Molly's Classic Car Cruise In including games
and prizes for participants. The Carousel Mall will set a nostalgic mood with Shellee
Graham's celebrated 2100 square foot exhibit "Return to Route 66": Photographs
From the Mother Road". There will be a nostalgia contest featuring period fashions,
Go-Kart races, a carnival, games & crafts. From noon to 7 PM drag races will roar down
the runway at Norton Air Force Base.
Thursday, Sept. 15 swings into action with a golf tournament from 8-2 PM followed by an
awards luncheon. The "E Street Cruise" from 6-9 PM and a pool tournament from
6-10 PM will highlight the evening's activities.
Friday, Sept. 16 features a street fair at Court Street Square (downtown) and a Route
66 carnival in the Carousel Mall parking lot from Noon - 10 PM. The "E" Street
Cruise goes "Hollywood" from 4-10 PM with celebrities from television, movies
and sports steering the fun in a new direction.
Saturday, Sept. 17 will jumpstart with a "burn out" contest at the National
Orange Show and the World's Best Mystery Poker Run both beginning at 11 AM. New to the
Rendezvous this year will be the Spectrum Route 66 Classic Auto Auction also at the Orange
Show. From 3-7 PM there is a "legal" downtown Open Header Cruise with an Open
Header Contest from 4-6 PM.
Sunday, Sept. 18 will "rev" up with "Show and Shine" car show from
7 AM - 3 PM. The day will be highlighted by the Parade of Champions Cruise from Noon - 3
PM.
Many other exhibits and activities are also planned. For more information call San
Bernardino Convention & Visitors Bureau (909) 889-3980 or (800) TORTE66.
OVER THE ROAD
ILLINOIS
Signage at last!
The state that had no historic signs now has $60,000 being sought by the IL DOT
Planning Group, to be approved by the DOT Budget Committee, to sign along the route from
the Intermodal Surface Transportation Environmental Agency (ISTEA). They are seeking to
put up 450 Historic signs and some directional signs from the Interstate. Also ISTEA
planned funding will be used for interpretive centers. Specifically mentioned is a rest
stop near Hamel on I-55. The Interstate rest stop will encourage motorists to find old 66.
TEXAS
Team Players!
Old Route 66 Association of Texas has a new president, George Rook. George and Melba
are the proprietors of "Route 66 Antiques" on West 6th St. in Amarillo. Their
"Grapes of Wrath" truck outside attracts much attention. In '92 they
ceremoniously christened it with Route 66 beer for the caravaners making the Chicago to
Pacific Coast anniversary pilgrimage. Rook was then the lead driver to take the
Anniversary Shield from Amarillo to the Glenrio, New Mexico border.
In addition to their shop they now have a Rt. 66 museum and information center which
they have worked on for years. There is a soda fountain, gas pumps, oil pumps, and old ads
and photographs. They have an impressive collection of 21 different original Rt. 66 signs,
including one taken down when the last section of I-40 was completed in Williams, AZ.
George Rook succeeds Charlie Marie Shurley as president who still works at the Devil's
Rope Museum in McLean as does her predecessor, Delbert Trew. Trew is still the writer for
the association newsletter it's not one of the fancier newsletters, but it's certainly the
funniest. Their association's down-home team spirit is enviable.
McLean's "Route 66 Museum" and "Devil's Rope Museum" is the
association headquarters. They are both in a 14,000 sq. ft. building which used to be a
brassiere factory. Devil's Rope is barbed wire, and they have everything that can be known
about it. Their showroom will be host in '95 to a three day barbed wire convention. People
will come from at least ten states and one from Australia.
The Route 66 Museum is one of the largest souvenir shops on the route. The lobby has a
dozen showcases known as "Collector's Corner" where a revolving exhibit of
people's personal collections can be seen. Their volunteer staff sticks to simple
procedures without even the use of a cash register. The association got through many
complications, but is now happy to have four billboards on I-40 directing motorists to the
McLean museums. In May alone, they tallied 874 visitors from 33 states and 14 foreign
countries.
Speaking about Texas<
... Did we miss a party or what?!
Just recently there was a 20th anniversary celebration for Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo;
and surely you know of owner, Stanley Marsh III who was dressed for the occasion in a
white tuxedo and white top hat that had a '59 pink Cadillac on top, just like the steed he
pulls up in. There were two large tents with servers in tuxedos in the dusty field. Guests
wore gowns, shorts or whatever. The real focus, of course, was the way the Cadillacs were
dressed - in elegant white. Then it was a tagger's fantasy ' spray paint for everybody!
NEW MEXICO
Signage...almost!
For some time we've known that New Mexico had $16,000 designated for historic Rt. 66
signs, ($10,000 from the state highway department, and $6,000 from the National Forest
Service (Cibola Nat'l Forest has a 66 border)). $16,000 may just be a start for a big
state like NM, but as grassroots, "I saved Rt. 66" Bob Audette of Tijeras says,
"Let's get them up. If we've got them, everyone else will want them,"...meaning
it will catch on.
On August 2, '94 a meeting in Albuquerque will determine sites for the signs that have
already been made.
Incidentally, Bob Audette is the subject of an article in the recent third issue of
Route 66 Magazine, a national publication.
CALIFORNIA
Route 66 Art Exhibit
Route 66 Territory Museum, Thomas Winery Plaza, 7965 Vineyard Ave. Suite F5, Rancho
Cucamonga, CA (909) 948-9166.
On display: seven watercolor sketches by Huntington Beach artist Ralph Smith
chronicling his 1948 journey from the upper midwest to LA.
Also: 31 color photos from four area photographers, including CHR66A board member Jim
Munding. Maps and text accompanying the photos are by La Verne graphic artist Donald
Roketty.
The exhibit will be ongoing.
ROUTE 99
A FRIEND IN NEED !
by Dan Mahnke
Highway 99 was designated an historic route in California on September 3rd 1993, under
legislation, by the Route 99 Association of California, and founder Patrick R. Frank. The
first sign of many was erected on February 3rd, 1994 in Cottonwood. Others have been put
up along San Fernando Road in Burbank. More signs will be put up along the remaining (75%)
old road, which goes from the Canadian border to Mexicali.
It is the highway to take from Bakersfield, CA down to L.A. near the I-5, but sections
are missing. Pyramid Lake drowns a section just 12 miles north of Castaic. Ridge Route
Road is an older, and in some places untouched, alternate to take between Hwy 138 and
Castaic. Near Santa Clarita, it is called The Old Road. From Hwy 14 to Interstate 110, or
Route 66, it is San Fernando Road.
After the January 17th earthquake, the road was used as a detour for I-5, north of Hwy
14 to Calgrove. A section right at I-5 and Hwy 14 Interchange has been removed for
construction purposes of that Interchange. That section has a good chance of being
restored due to much local traffic in that area, but nothing is certain. The truck route
on Hwy 14 has been used for all traffic going on Hwy 14 until the auto sections were
completed July 8th. (photo of Rt. 99 below Hwy 14, facing NW)
Inquiries to: Route 99 Association of CA, Doug Pruitt, P.O. Box 5185, Cottonwood, CA
96022; or call (916) 347-3338
Commentary by Dan Mahnke:
Even on July 19th, the northbound I-5 at I-210 was shut down due to one accident.
Northbound traffic came to a complete halt since San Fernando road did not go through at
Hwy 14, because of construction. An older two lane mountain road, the west end of Foothill
Blvd., and the Hwy 14 truck route were the only roads through. It took me two hours to go
two and one half miles during the rush hour traffic. Near Barstow, I-15 has been closed
several times this year.
In Southern California, it is absolutely necessary that the older highways stay intact
or are restored as an alternate through road due to much local traffic. With many chances
of the Interstates nearby being closed due to an accident, toxic spill, or other incident;
we can force the State of California to use their money to help us re-open closed sections
of both highways. Older roads and truck routes still survive natural disasters and other
incidents, but not by man's choice.
California Route 66 - Travelers Please Note:
Bridges between Essex and Kelbaker Road (see your Guide) are going to be completely
restructured. Motorists are being detoured onto I-40. There are 52 bridges between Daggett
and Needles with late 50s wooden structures, thus these detours could possibly continue
for another six months.
PARTY ON THE BRIDGE
by Maggie Neil
First of all I have to state that my interest in the Colorado Street Bridge in
Pasadena, CA has always been there. As a native born San Gabriel Valley Californian I
remember driving over this bridge in and out of the San Gabriel Valley all my young life.
And of course we heard on the radio and in the newspapers of the occasional suicide off of
it.
Also early in my life I traveled California Route 66 and remember the landmarks that
are associated with it. In the last thirteen years my husband and I have done a lot of
RVing over much of Route 66 as well. So it is with that background that we were interested
in the celebration on the Colorado Street Bridge, June 11, 1994.
We left our home in Seal Beach in our RV at 2:00 p.m. and parked within one block of
the entrance to the bridge. We first walked down to old Pasadena and what a wonderful
surprise that was. The town is totally refurbished with lots of wonderful shops,
restaurants, etc. We recommend spending time there to anybody who likes to explore, walk
and eat!
At 5:30 we went over to the bridge and purchased our tickets for what was a warm
evening of strolling, sipping, eating, and music. We were greeted by people in authentic
period costumes because this was sponsored by Pasadena Heritage as a fund raiser.
On the beautifully rehabilitated bridge (done by Kiewit Pacific) they had Model A
automobiles, vintage bicycles, a 1909 fire engine, and varieties of horseless carriages.
As we were wandering it occurred to us that most of the people were not aware that this
was once part of Route 66 and, as far as we could tell, we were the only representatives
of the Route 66 Association.
To sum up, we had a wonderful evening. The bridge never looked better, and now that it
is again structurally sound, people will be able to use and visually enjoy this National
Register landmark.
TRUCKING ON ROUTE 66
by Dan Mahnke
Interstates were primarily made for the large trucks which could not travel safely on
the old narrow roads. They could also travel cross-country without delays, which otherwise
would include slowing and stopping in city traffic. Being a truck driver, I have seen much
of the country including those sections of Route 66 near the Interstates. While in Rolla,
MO, I made a wrong turn and could not turn around. I ended up on Route 66 and had to
travel several miles before I could get back on the Interstate. While doing so, I had to
cross a 12' wide bridge just large enough for me to get by. Next time I'll have to avoid
all narrow Route 66 sections. It is not easy to maneuver a 65' long truck in a small area
with a 80,000 lb. gross weight. Many companies use the Interstates by Route 66 primarily
because it is the best route from L.A. to Chicago in all seasons. Today, 78% of all
freight is moved by trucks.
In 1919, an Army convoy went from Washington D.C. to San Francisco, a journey which
took 69 days. In 1989, a four man team rode a bicycle from the Pacific to the Atlantic in
only 5 days and one hour using the Interstates as much as possible. On June 29, 1956,
President Eisenhower, "Father of the Interstate Highway System," signed the
historic legislation that created the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways
and the Federal Highway Trust Fund.
SUMMIT INN
by Jim Munding
High atop Cajon Summit is the famous Summit Inn, which has been a landmark there long
before Interstate 15 replaced Route 66. Mr. C.A. Stevens has been the owner since 1966 and
has lots (and lots) of interesting memories and stories to tell.
He was born in Clinton, Oklahoma which is located on "66." He said that
"Route 66 seems to be part of my life."
The Summit Inn is a favorite road stop for many. Old "66" can be seen from
the restaurant, but only a short stretch remains there because Interstate 15 is now the
main thoroughfare.
Featured on the menu are great breakfasts. Stevens said, "Country biscuits and
gravy, fruit cobblers, and homemade cinnamon rolls are favorites." There are other
items such as the "Summit Country Fried Steak Sandwich" for $6.50 (including
onion rings and French fries); and the "Summit Burger with cheese, salad, and
fries" for $5.75; that will satisfy a hungry traveler.
The Summit Inn has been "serving good food since 1952" and welcomes all Route
66 fans. They have a nice selection of souvenirs, a gas station, and lots of Route 66
Memories.
NEEDLES HARVEY GIRLS
TO BE HONORED
by Bernice Morris
Needles Regional Museum will host a reception Saturday, October 22, 1994 for Needles
area women who were Harvey girls, employed by the Fred Harvey Corporation in restaurants
along the Santa Fe Railroad.
Harvey Girls to be honored include: Emma Park, Virgia Johns, Elma Greable, Bernice
Pitkin Reynolds, Jo Brochheuser, Catherine Raley, Doris Chambers, Belle Pinelle, Ruby
Chadburn, Dora Taylor, and Corrine More.
Fred Harvey was an Englishman who in 1850 emigrated to New York, where he landed a job
as a dishwasher. Later after establishing a St. Louis restaurant which the Civil War
forced him to close he went west with the Santa Fe. By 1889 Harvey had food operations in
every Santa Fe station, from Topeka, Kansas to Santa Monica, California.
Harvey Girls were wholesome young women carefully selected to smilingly serve weary
travelers the delicious Harvey fare, Santa Fe style. The first Harvey Girls were recruited
in 1883 through ads in eastern and midwestern newspapers: "Women 18-30 of good
character, attractive, intelligent. $17.50 a month plus room, board, and tips."
In 1926, when Route 66 opened the country to automobile travel, Harvey Houses enjoyed
increased business from tourists eager to see the west. El Garces, the local Harvey House
in Needles operated until 1949.
"We think recognizing these ladies is long overdue," says reception chair
Bernice Morris. "We want to honor them, and have them share their memories with us.
Many of them had never been away from home, and they had the courage to leave their homes
for the opportunity to get out and see the exciting west."
Graduates of Needles High School class of 1949, attending their 45th reunion at the
Elks Lodge that evening, are invited to attend as special guests as well.
The reception is scheduled from 5-8 p.m. so that 1949 graduates can attend before their
own reunion.
"Everyone is invited," says Maggie McShan, Needles Museum president. "We
hope to have a big crowd for these women who came here as girls and remained to become
pillars of the community."
There is no charge, but Morris states, "we are hoping to attract some new museum
members that night." Annual dues are $20 individual and $30 family.
Anyone with a Harvey House connection or interested in serving on the committee is
encouraged to contact Bernice Morris at (760) 326-3377.
