Preservation Along Route 66 in Illinois
Learn about sites people are working to preserve along Illinois' portion of Route 66
Preserving The Water Tower (2024) by CORE of McLeanLandmarks Illinois
McLean Water Tower, McLean
The McLean water tower was commissioned in 1934 and completed in 1935 as a Public Works Administration project. It served the village until it was decommissioned in 2017 when a higher-capacity tank was installed at another location.
Unique structure
At a total height of 96 feet, the water tower includes a 60,000-gallon tank made of riveted sheet metal and features a tank with a conical top, straight sides and concave hemispherical self-supporting bottom.
Water Tower Park (2024) by CORE of McLeanLandmarks Illinois
Preservation effort
Local organization CORE of McLean has taken ownership of the iconic and is working on Phase 1 of the tower restoration, which includes power washing and base painting. Landmarks Illinois awarded the group a $5,000 Preservation Heritage Fund grant in 2024 for the project.
Nite Spot Cafe (2018) by Credit: Illinois Route 66 Scenic BywayLandmarks Illinois
Nite Spot Cafe, Fairmont City
First opened in 1933, the former 24/7 diner features an iconic neon sign and was a popular spot for tourists and truckers traveling Route 66.
Endangered status
The former roadside diner has sat vacant and closed for years, unfortunately. In 2018, Landmarks Illinois included it on its “Most Endangered” list due to deferred maintenance and the threat of demolition.
Additional history
In its heyday, the restaurant also sold personal care items for Route 66 travelers. Additionally, around Christmas, truckers could place orders through The Nite Spot for holiday gifts, which they would their way home.
Macoupin County Jail (2024-05-22) by Landmarks IllinoisLandmarks Illinois
Macoupin County Jail, Carlinville
On May 22, 2024, the Macoupin County “Cannonball Jail” celebrated its grand reopening following a restoration.
"Cannonball" Jail
The jail was built using the "cannonball" method, making it nearly impossible for people to escape by removing the stone blocks. The medieval-inspired fortress was in use from 1869 until 1988.
Fundraising Sign (2015) by Macouin County JailLandmarks Illinois
Reopening
The jail closed in 1988 due to structural issues. In 2015, a campaign was started to fund the renovation of the old jail so it could be reopened to the public as a tourist destination. A $3,000 grant from Landmarks Illinois in 2016 helped fund that effort.
Ariston Cafe (2024) by Landmarks IllinoisLandmarks Illinois
Artison Cafe, Lichfield
In 2024, Ariston Café in Litchfield celebrated its 100th anniversary. Landmarks Illinois Regional Advocacy Manager Quinn Adamowski attended the celebration, along with Casey Claypool from the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
National significance
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006, the iconic Route 66 roadside restaurant has served residents and tourists for almost 90 years at its current location.
Landmarks Illinois
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