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Road Runner’s Retreat
The Road Runner’s Retreat is located on National Trails Highway/Route 66 in the small town of Chambless in the Mojave Desert of California. The property was first developed in 1961 and soon after sold to the Dotson family.
The Dotson’s had previously owned and operated Duke’s Western Wear in Montclair, California, and with their expert marketing skills were able to amplify this unique, desert location. This included DJ radio broadcasts held live from the parking lot, a signature white statuary horse and the construction of the iconic Road Runner’s Retreat neon sign in 1965. The business included a googie-style gas station, auto repair shop with a tow truck service and a cafe. There was also housing for workers, trailers, cabins, and a small, shared laundry room.
The business prospered until the unforgettable day in 1972 when I-40 opened. Duke Dotson Jr. remembers, “One day we had brisk business and the diner was full. The next day it was like someone shut off the tap of a water faucet. There were no more travelers on the road. Overnight we were put out of business.”
The Dotson’s sold the property ca. 1973 to the Murphy family. Today, it remains a popular stopping place for photo opportunities, and has been used as a movie set by the film industry. The grandson of the Murphy’s together with the Dotson family are actively envisioning a new future for the property. The first phase will be to restore the neon sign, which features a large metal road runner. Historically the neon legs on the bird were lit in sequence to appear as if the road runner was running. Grant funds will assist with preparation of planning and design documents as part of the larger effort to restore the sign to operating condition.
source: Road Runner’s Retreat Sign Restoration Planning -- NPS
