"The Mother Road" was established on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. Starting in Chicago, westbound travelers traversed a series of towns in Illinois before arriving in St. Louis.
Route 66 across Missouri stretched 317 miles and connected a variety of large cities and small towns, traversing rolling hills and valleys.
We've driven much of Route 66, including multiple segments across Missouri. A popular stop for us and other Route 66 travelers is Spencer Station!
Spencer Phillips 66 Service StationIn 1925 Sidney Casey walked 55 miles to purchase the "town" of Spencer for $500. From 1926 until 1928, he constructed a general store, service station, cafe and barber shop. Spencer was bypassed by Interstate 44 in 1961, and later saved in 2007. The general store was the first building built on this site in 1926. The garage was completed in 1927 and the café / barbershop in 1928. It is still located on all original Route 66 concrete. In June of 2022, Ed Klein of Route 66 World purchased the property and buildings to further continue the restoration and preservation of the buildings and property. Ed's plans are to open it up to the public on a limited basis as his schedule and restoration progress allow. The plans include bringing the general store back to the 1930s era, with shevling and display cases while having a section serving as the Spencer Station's gift shop. The barber shop will be restored to function as a museum for items ranging from the mid 1880s until the late 1940s. The diner will be restored to its circa 1930s-1940s configuration. Today, the property has become a "must see" stop for Route 66 travelers, motorcycle groups and classic auto tours. The Phillips 66 gas pumps and island are a popular photo op for visitiors! We recommend a visit there on your next road trip!! Spencer Station is located about 24 miles west of Springfield and 50 miles east of Joplin. The official address is 19720 Lawrence 2062, Miller, MO 65707. See interactive map of its location below. Spencer Station Website and Spencer Station on Facebook
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Spencer Station, looking along Route 66 towards the Johnson Creek Bridge in the distance |
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More Missouri Route 66 Resources |
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