THE RESTORATION OF THE BOOTS MOTEL:
Our ultimate goal is to see that the Boots will be restored as close to it's original condition as possible, and once again operated as a lodging motel-court to serve the many travelers on the historic Mother Road, Route 66. We hope this will also generate increased tourism income for the Carthage community.
The motel's structures are receiving preventative maintenance, assisted by our Property Manager and using Route 66 and community volunteers and donated materials when, and if possible. We are presently investigating potential restoration grants, such as the National Park Service's Route 66 Corridor Grant program, and will also be applying for placement on the National Register of Historic Places, as this may help in the grant application process.
The five rear rooms in the rear detached motel building
have received the most immediate attention, and will be
prepared lodging by May of 2012.
During restoration work, the main office may be open
at special times to receive visitors and giving short
tours of the building and grounds. Photos, T-shirts,
postcards and other Boots Motel souveniers are offered
for sale, and donations are accepted...again to help
fund restoration efforts.
Because the property has ample parking for large
touring groups, a picnic area may soon be made
available in the side lawn, including overnight parking
for those traveling the Route in an RV. Those stopping-
in for a visit will be encouraged to visit the Carthage
Courthouse and Square, the Route 66 Drive-In Theater
and other historic Carthage locations, thus benefiting
the community of Carthage itself economically.
Brochures and guidebooks are also be available to hand-out to visitors in the future. During restoration, local Route 66 fund-raising events may be held at the Motel, including small Car Shows, Cook-Outs, Mother Road Interpertative Presentations and more, including an "open house" from time to time.
It is planned that the Motel will be partially operational by May 12th. of 2012, and restoration completed within a two-to-four year time frame. The Main house may also later become a Route 66 Visitors Center and owner's residence.
This restoration plans presented here are simply "initial" plans. You are invited to submit your comments and ideas by signing our Guest Book located at the bottom of the homepage. Your input will then be available for reading by potential restoration sponsors and benefactors, and could greatly help our efforts. More details will be posted here as "Updates", so please check back often, and thanks for your time.
Deborah and Priscilla - Owners, Boots Motel
Before Restoration Photos
