Springfield, MO to Mount Vernon, IL - 270 miles
Springfield - Marshfield - Lebanon - Waynesville - Rolla - St. James - Cuba - St. Clair - Pacific - St Louis (end of Route66) / Illinois/ - Mt. Vernon
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Morning in Springfield offers the remnants of overnight storms
As usual, everyone usually arises around 5:30AM. This AM we were treated to a power failure around 6:00AM and it stayed like that for about an hour
We hit the road again eastbound
Making good time allows a stop a the 'Barrel Factory' in Lebanon
Upstairs in the factory, Norris was hounded by one of the cashiers to sell his 57 Transtar to her. Norris offered a deal of $20.00 a week for the rest of her life, but she declined. We all bought some refreshments for the coming evening, mostly Merlot and Chardonnay
Eastward toward the Missouri border
To the last Route 66 stop in Missouri, The Mule Trading Post
Pressing on toward Illinois
Pit stop at a MacDonalds
Motoring throught heartland USA
Due to the poor road conditions, we experienced coming through Saint Louis on the westbound leg, the group decides to take the bypass, south of the city.
We regret that we had to deprive Dave of his treat at Ted Drewes Custard Stand this time. The drive east on 270 and north on 15 to Route 64, keeps us away from the downtown traffic and adds only a little time.
Quick check-in, thanks to Dave calling ahead. Johnstones have to immediately change rooms because of a problem in the WC. New room has a couch and extra chairs. Johnstones host the Hospitality Room this evening, so Bob goes up to the truck stop to check for goodies, finding that beer is only sold in State Stores, a distance away (darn!). He settles for some sodas. Donna makes popcorn cups. We grab some extra chairs from the old room and make a conversation pit. Gordon Cady joins us for a nice hour or so.
Gordon and Elaine Cady of
Jacksonville, IL come to meet us at the Motel in their 54 Commander
Gordon purchased this car new, in 1954, sold it once, then purchased it back from that owner. 200,000 well cared for miles, looks great!
Later festivities at Applebee's
After dinner at Applebee's, two couples walk down to a local shopping mall for more souvenirs.
