The Munger Moss Motel, a Route 66 landmark in Lebanon, Mo. since 1946, has been put up for sale by longtime owners Bob and Ramona Lehman.
The Lehmans, who are retiring, will continue to run the motel at 1336 East Route 66& until it is sold.
“We’re not leaving until someone gets it lock, stock, and barrel,” Ramona said during a phone interview Monday.
The asking price for the 61-unit motel is $995,000. It also includes a house, billboard, swimming pool, and its distinctive neon sign. To my eye, the motel has been well-maintained throughout the years.
The Lehmans took possession of the Munger Moss on June 1, 1971. They’ve decided that more than 40 years was enough.
“Our health is still pretty good, but we’re both tired,” Ramona said. “It puts a lot of hours on you.
“But I love Route 66, and I love the people. I’ve got to sell it to a person who loves Route 66, too. It’s ready for someone who knows Route 66 and has more stamina than I do.”
Ramona cited Kevin and Nancy Mueller, who took over the historic Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, N.M., about a year ago, as an ideal type of successors for the Munger Moss. “That’s what I’m hoping to find,” she said.
When the motel changes hands, the Lehmans plan to stay in the Lebanon area, although they want to do more traveling, especially to Arizona.
Those who interested in the motel can contact Craig Chandler at Hospitality Sales of America at 417-559-7300 or by emailing hospitalitysalesofamerica(at)gmail(dot)com for an appointment to tour the property.
UPDATE 9/8/2013: Chandler said in an email his contract with the Munger Moss expired without a sale. The Lehmans told me in an email the motel is no longer on the market. So it appears the Lehmans will own and run the Route 66 property indefinitely.
it is an incredible sign–as much in the daytime as the night..
If I only had a million dollars and was 40 years younger…
Bob and Ramona are true icons of the road, along with their historic motel. Their hospitality will be missed along Route 66!
If I didn’t already have a Route 66 place. . . (sigh. . ) Ramona and Bob, may you find the perfect buyer.
Hi Laurel, Maybe you would know of a nice couple that this motel would be a good fit for?
Just what I’ve been looking for, but I think they need to be more realistic on the price.
Hi John, Thanks for your comments. They have packaged the motel with an off-premise billboard and a house that is directly next door to the motel – it has been thoroughly restored to mint condition. Maybe we could interest you in looking at it all. Craig.
We stayed at the Munger Moss a few years back in the Route 66 room. Charming place with wonderful people as hosts. Sorry to hear the motel is for sale, but Ramona and Bob have certainly earned their stars and hope they will enjoy retirement.
My family and I have stayed there several times on our Rt 66 trips! We enjoy the hospitality and the ambiance. I hope that people buy it and keep it going!
What an iconic Motel – Ramona made us most welcome – Route 66 needs more signage and promotion – this Motel could be a real winner given the right promotion. It seems in very good condition and there is room for higher rates if needed to keep it doing well. An opportunity for a young couple with vision. We are retired so not for us!
we loved staying there..bought some fabulous jewlery