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In my travels on the back roads doing genealogy research, I’ve seen hundreds of remnants of times gone by. These iconic symbols of "Americana" inspired me to create this blog. By documenting them, I'll remember and maybe you'll find something interesting to hunt down next time you are in one of these areas!
You can use the search feature in the blog to look for specific cities or states. Enjoy!
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Route 66 Self Storage, Pomona California
This neon sign with it's sweeping big red arrow and the Route 66 shield padlock is great! I love that this business adopted a retro style...
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Aug 25
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Wolfe's Market since 1917, Claremont California
In 1917, John and Molly Wolfe opened a modest market on a dirt road that would later become Route 66. Back then, Wolfe’s was the only gas...
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Aug 25
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Madonna Of The Trail Monument, Upland California
This 18-foot-tall, five-ton tribute to the pioneer women who traded bonnets for bravery and helped tame the American West was dedicated...
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Aug 25
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Magic Lamp Inn, Rancho Cucamonga California
The Magic Lamp Inn rose from the ashes of Lucy and John’s Italian Restaurant, which burned down in the early 1950s. Frank and Edith Penn...
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Aug 25
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Sycamore Inn, Rancho Cucamonga California
In 1848, this place was originally built as the Mountain View Inn, which became a stop for the Butterfield Overland Stagecoach. The...
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Aug 25
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Nature's Cycle Roadside Art, Rancho Cucamonga, California
I wouldn't have even seen this if we hadn't stopped at Carl's Jr as this great piece of public art is off the main road a bit and hidden...
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Aug 23
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Historic Orange Stand, Fontana California
This giant orange was built in the 1930's as an orange and fruit juice stand. It was one of six that Bob DeVries built for his family...
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Aug 23
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Bono's Restaurant, Fontana California
Opened in 1936 as an Italian restaurant and deli. It had a verandah that opened towards Route 66 converting the building into an open...
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Aug 23
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Moana Motel, Fontana California
This original neon sign dates back to the opening of the motel in 1948. There are two rows of rooms facing a courtyard in between with...
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Aug 23
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Ned's Oil & Stuff Sign, Rialto California
This weathered gem of a sign in front of Ned's Hardware is a local landmark. It's for people like me who find beauty in a slightly rusted...
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Aug 23
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El Rey Motel, Rialto California
This sign out front of the El Rey Motel flickers with just enough pride to say "Yeah, we're still here." I'm not sure when it opened,...
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Aug 23
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Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino California
Another one of the most iconic Route 66 images is the Wigwam Motel. Staying here was a true americana road trip experience! This was...
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Aug 23
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San Bernardino Motel, San Bernardino California
Still in operation since the 1950's, this motel stands as a proud, unpolished gem of roadside Americana. It has the classic u-shaped room...
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Aug 23
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Mitla Cafe, San Bernardino California
Mitla Cafe stands as a culinary icon, serving up Mexican comfort food with a side of history since 1937. Founded by Lucia Rodriguez and...
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Aug 23
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Oasis Motel, San Bernardino California
The Oasis Motel stands as a weathered monument to a bygone era of road trips, rebellion, and retro charm with an interesting...
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Aug 23
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Dream Inn Motel, San Bernardino California
Although not quite as flashy as some, this neon sign advertised the Sharene Motel from the 1950's up until around 2010. The motel is...
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Aug 23
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Lido Motel, San Bernardino California
Originally the Andy Motel in the 1940's, the name was changed and this great neon sign added around the 1960's. The Lido's vibe was...
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Aug 23
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