Route 66-based story
written by OC,SH’s founder, inspired by his September 2009 Route 66 road trip
CHAPTER 22: REBUILDING IDEA
Jim Hinckley’s research was surprisingly detailed, in the eyes of the brothers & the shopkeeper & his wife. While he hadn’t included this particular town in his book about Route 66 ghost towns, he had delved into the town’s history. Jim discovered that, despite the town council’s declaration, the state fought the town every step of the way in the restoration processes. The local Route 66 association was instrumental in moving forward, of course, but it was the sibling’s Dad who impacted the forward progression the most. He rallied people, various businesses, other Route 66 associations, & even a few politicians, to support the town’s cause. His passion for the “small town life”, & Route 66, were major driving forces helping the town succeed against the state’s wishes.
“I had no idea,” mumbled the shopkeeper at one point in the conversation. “I mean, I knew he had a hand in helping our town, but I had no idea how much.”
“And, it wasn’t just him,” Hinckley noted. “His wife helped, too, though she remained out of the spotlight.”
“Wow,” said the youngest brother. “Mom really was as passionate about Route 66 as Dad.”
“Kinda makes me want to see about rebuilding that old train depot,” the oldest brother mused.
“Ah, that ain’t gonna happen,” interjected the shopkeeper.
“Why not?” queried the eldest. “It doesn’t have to be an ACTIVE depot. We could start a museum. Maybe include some of the documentation Jim uncovered in his research.”
“I like that idea,” said the shopkeeper’s wife. “But, where would the money come from?”
“Good question,” said the eldest. “But, I’m not ready to just give up the idea yet….”
The eldest’s voice trailed off, as Jim spoke up: “Definitely don’t give up on the idea. I think it’s a good one. I’m sure I could get others behind the project, too. Let’s see what we can do.”
Jim left that afternoon, promising to help them explore & get the project of rebuilding the train depot off the ground. The youngest brother was skeptical; the eldest was enthusiastic but realized it would take a while. The shopkeeper was clearly behind it; his wife muffled her excitement.