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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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Bombay Beach Drive-In, Bombay Beach California
This isn’t your average theater. There’s no overpriced tickets or popcorn. Instead, you get a glorious collection of wheel-less, rusted, sun-bleached classic cars parked in perfect formation, all staring reverently at a retired semi-trailer truck serving as the world’s most improvised movie screen. This outdoor art installation gives off a post-apocalyptic wasteland vibe, where the loyal patrons showed up in 1975 and never left. Stop by and walk among the vintage cars on Aven
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Jun 14


Nuart Theatre, Los Angeles California
We were so close to the finish line of Route 66 that we didn't stop to get a better picture of this timeless theatre. The theatre opened in 1930. Look closely at what's playing on the marquee and you'll see the theatre's claim to immortality. It has been showing "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" every Saturday night at midnight since 1986. Starting sporadically in 1976, it became a staple by the 80's and has shown continually from 1986 on. At over 40 years, it may be the longes
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Dec 29, 2025


Rialto Theatre, South Pasadena California
This theatre was built in 1925 and was featured in the movie "LA LA Land". At the time of it's closing in 2007 it was the only single-screen, still operating, movie palace in LA County. It has been remodeled and opened as a church. Unfortunately much of the theatre's unique Jazz Age charm was lost during renovations. However, the great neon marquee was restored and you can see it on Fair Oaks Avenue in South Pasadena, CA
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Nov 30, 2025


Foothill Drive In Theatre, Azusa California
Opened in 1961, this drive-in theatre lasted a little over 40 years with it's last show in 2001. When the property was sold, a stipulation of the sale was the retention of this classic neon sign. The sign was declared a California Landmark in 2002 and was restored and relit in 2007. You'll see it glowing proudly on East Alosta Avenue in Azusa, CA
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Nov 2, 2025


Spanish Style Theatre, Gallup New Mexico
This was one of my favorite buildings in Gallup. I was so happy to see the Spanish style facade from 1928 is in such great condition. The...
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Jan 25, 2024


Space Age Neon Theater sign, Grants New Mexico
One of my favorite styles of old neon signs, this one is on the West Theater. The theater opened in 1959 and is still showing first run...
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Jul 15, 2023


Maybe it's just me but I read Rewot at first glance! Oklahoma City Oklahoma
It's actually "Tower". I really like this sign. It is so interesting looking as it almost looks like it is backwards because your eyes...
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Oct 16, 2021


1946 Historic Theatre, Oklahoma City Oklahoma
The Will Rogers Theatre was built in 1946. it could sit 1,000 viewers and was decorated with a mural depicting scenes from Will Rogers...
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Oct 16, 2021
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