The Route 66 Memories antique and memorabilia store in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., closed Tuesday after 15 years of operation because of a poor economy, according to the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin.
The whimsical but rustic store in a century-old house at 10150 Foothill Blvd. (aka Route 66) was known for its water fountains, custom-made dinosaurs, rustic furniture, garden decor and Route 66 memorabilia.
The newspaper reported:
On Tuesday, owner Rosa Ramos watched as her husband, Gilbert Ramos, and other workers put the remnants of the store on the back of trucks. The dinosaur with three heads went with the patio furniture and garden gnomes. Meanwhile, Rosa sobbed.
“I get too emotional. I don’t really want to leave,” she said. “But the economy was really bad.”
“They didn’t have money to buy fountains or art that my dad makes,” said Ramos’ daughter, Michelle Ramos. “We have our loyal customers but it was just not enough.” […]
Melissa Guerrero, a Highland resident who drives by Route 66 Memories every day, was reduced to tears when she paid her last visit to the store.
“I want to cry,” Guerrero said. “This is a landmark. This is Route 66.”
Ramos said she wouldn’t rule out opening a similar store in Victorville, Calif. (another Route 66 town), or reopening at the same spot if the economy improves. California has been especially hard-hit by a deep recession and a real-estate bust.
If you’re interested in buying the remaining merchandise there, call 909-843-0498.