The Sky-Vu Motel is still in business along the edge of U.S 40 in eastern Kansas City, Mo. This ranch-style motel was built in the late 1940s and was crowned by a gorgeous sign made of porcelain, neon and chasing light bulbs. Metal awnings and classic seashell metal chairs decorated this 24-room lodge. Sadly, the [...]
One of the great things about old road maps are the depictions of the service station attendants. They gleefully hand out the latest map or wave goodbye. Smiles and impeccable dress are a must. It doesn’t matter that these guys have been changing tires and oil all day. Here are two examples of how oil [...]
If you pulled into your local Sinclair station in 1958, chances are the attendant would have offered you this calendar. Sinclair was just one of several oil companies that handed out a plethora of great-looking graphic design. Each month of this calendar was illustrated with a simple photo and a reminder of your auto’s needs. [...]
This sharp-looking brochure, from the early 1950s, highlighted the advantages of crossing Missouri on U.S. 50. The inside of the guide says: “Take a camera, take an appetite, and take Highway 50 across Missouri. On 50, you avoid trailer-trucks and commercial travelers. You discover a peaceful panorama of natural countryside, lovely little towns, thoughtfully planned [...]
The Carney Motel, facing U.S. 66 in Rolla, Mo., offered many conveniences to motorists. The motel was equipped with a swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, even a baby-sitting service. The Carney boasted of large picture windows in each room, which stared out to the new four-lane 66. This late 1950s brochure offers a idyllic picture of [...]
Need directions to navigate the Show-Me State’s roads? Stop in at this charming Phillips station and pick up a map. One quart of Phillips 66 motor oil will set you back 30 cents. Today, several of these little cottages still exist. There is one located near the museum that is a hair salon now.
