Rockwood Motor Court Inducted into Historic Hotels of America, Preserving Route 66 Legacy

The Rockwood Motor Court in Springfield, Missouri, has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This recognition places the motor court among more than 300 hotels and resorts nationwide celebrated for maintaining historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance. The induction underscores the property's significance as a preserved piece of American travel history, particularly along the famed Route 66.

Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide, stated that the organization is delighted to induct Rockwood Motor Court, a Route 66 rock masonry court built in 1929. He commended owners Phyllis Ferguson and Tim Phillips, along with their leadership team, for their careful historic preservation work, stewardship, and vision, which will allow future generations of travelers to experience this unique historic destination. Membership in Historic Hotels of America requires a hotel to be at least 50 years old, designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, and recognized as having historic significance.

The induction coincides with preparations for Route 66's centennial anniversary in 2026. Hailed by John Steinbeck as the "Mother Road," Route 66 represents a unique moment in history that continues to define the nation's identity through the rise of the automobile and its implications of freedom and mobility. Despite its fame, elements of Route 66 are lost annually, making destinations like Rockwood Motor Court crucial for embodying its cultural essence and reminding future generations of the era when road trips dominated the national consciousness. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has made significant efforts to revitalize Route 66 through grants, advocacy, and assistance, making the induction of Rockwood Motor Court a point of pride for the organization.

Rockwood Motor Court, built in 1929, is a prime example of early Route 66 tourist-court style, with cottages situated around a central courtyard. In 1948, the wood lap siding on the bungalows was covered with giraffe-style masonry and a sandstone façade, leading to the name change to "Rockwood Motor Court." It has operated under that name for over 75 years. In 2019, Ferguson and Phillips undertook an extensive restoration to provide authentic Route 66 lodging, resulting in its recognition as the oldest operating motel on Route 66. This preservation effort not only honors the past but also supports tourism and cultural education along the historic route.

The implications of this induction extend beyond the property itself, contributing to broader heritage conservation and economic revitalization along Route 66. For travelers and history enthusiasts, it offers an authentic glimpse into America's automotive and travel heritage, while for the hospitality industry, it sets a standard for historic preservation. The recognition by Historic Hotels of America, accessible via HistoricHotels.org, validates the importance of safeguarding such sites against modernization pressures. Additionally, the motor court's own website, www.rockwoodcourt.com, provides further details for those interested in its history and offerings. This induction serves as a reminder of the enduring value of historic places in connecting people to shared cultural narratives and promoting sustainable tourism.