Photo by Judy Hinckley Continued From Page 19 Representatives from other automotive manufacturers that include Studebaker, Citroen, DeSoto, Graham, and Chevrolet are also on display. Expansion of the facility, a favorable article in the AAA magazine, Home & Away, and addition of one of a kind 1917 “motor home” built on a Packard truck chassis in the summer of 2011 has fueled the popularity of this must stop business that exemplifies the very essence of Route 66. The owner who loaned the 1917 Packard truck has provided a brief history that includes a tie with the origins of the pioneering Pickwick Bus Line, a foundational component in the establishment of Greyhound. In addition to the eclectic collection of automobiles and related memorabilia, including a very rare Packard dealership sign, Afton Station is a repository for all manner of items pertaining to Route 66 and the history of Afton. In 2009, Afton Station was selected the best new business on Route 66. Plans for Afton and Afton Station reflect the changes and transformation of communities all along this highway because of the resurgent interest in Route 66. The Kane’s are looking to expand on their automotive display in the coming months. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation has authorized placement of a granite monument to commemorate Afton and its association with the legendary “Sidewalk Highway” that dates to 1922. Afton Station photo provided by Laurel Kane; Packard Sign photo provided by Jim Hinckley About the Author Jim Hinckley is a regular contributor to 66 The Mother Road, and writes about a different town along Route 66 for each edition. Jim has written many books including Ghost Towns of Route 66, Ghost Towns of the Southwest, Backroads of Arizona and Route 66 Backroads. 20
September / October 2011