Rural Missouri, a publication of the Association of Missouri Electrical Cooperatives, features the re-created Gay Parita gas station near Halltown, Mo., in its May issue.
The place has been open only a few years, but it’s already attracting visitors by the thousands, thanks in large part to the hospitality of owner Gary Turner:
“We get about 6,000 people a year who stop by,” says Gary, 65. “It isn’t hard to get hooked on Route 66. This road is an adventure through time and history, a real piece of Americana.”
Gary’s guest book has been signed by travelers from as far away as New Zealand, Russia, China, India, Lithuania, Denmark, Italy and France. “I’ve made friends from all over the world,” says the Route 66 ambassador.
I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Gary Turner yet. But based on what I’ve heard, I imagine I won’t forget him once I do. And 6,000 visitors a year?! Wow, just wow.