Cuba, Missouri – Mural City
Nestled within the rolling landscapes of south-central Missouri, the city of Cuba presents a unique blend of historical significance, artistic expression, and natural allure. More than just a point on the map, Cuba, Missouri, is a vibrant community that proudly displays its heritage while embracing the present. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cuba, Missouri, offers a gateway to numerous adventures with rustic lodges and campgrounds, three free-flowing rivers perfect for rafting, and several lakes ideal for various water activities, including fishing, canoeing, swimming, and water skiing.
The story of Cuba, Missouri, begins in 1857, a time of great ambition and expansion in the United States. The town’s genesis was directly linked to the anticipated construction of the southern branch of the Union Pacific Railroad, a project that promised to connect distant regions and spur economic growth. In a gesture of solidarity, the founders named the town "Cuba" in sympathy with the island nation then struggling under Spanish rule, a testament to the awareness and empathy of the early settlers. Before the arrival of the railroad, the local economy was primarily sustained by iron ore mining and agriculture. Oxen-drawn carts were a common sight, diligently transporting goods to the bustling markets of St. Louis. For nearly half a century, mining remained a cornerstone of the community, shaping its identity and providing livelihoods for many families.
The year 1860 marked a turning point for Cuba, Missouri, with the arrival of the railroad. This new mode of transportation revolutionized the movement of goods and products, transforming the town into a crucial shipping center for the surrounding region. This improved accessibility spurred a boom in apple orchards, leading to an era known as "The Land of the Big Red Apple" from 1895 through the 1920s. During this period, the town also developed a thriving barrel-making industry, essential for storing and transporting the abundant apple harvest. By the turn of the century, Cuba had risen to become the largest producer and distributor of apples in the entire state of Missouri, solidifying its place on the agricultural map. Although apple production experienced a decline in the 1930s, the tradition of barrel-making continues in the community to this day, a tangible link to its prosperous past.
The completion of Route 66 in 1931 brought about another significant transformation for Cuba. Businesses that had previously clustered around the railroad tracks began to relocate closer to the new highway, drawn by the promise of increased visibility and accessibility. New establishments sprang up along the Mother Road, including restaurants, filling stations, and motels, all catering to the burgeoning number of traveling motorists. Among these businesses was the Wagon Wheel Motel, a testament to the enduring allure of Route 66. Constructed in 1934 from native Ozark stone, the motel, originally known as the Wagon Wheel Cabins, offered weary travelers a respite from their journey. In 1946, it was expanded from nine to fourteen units and, at one time, also featured a Standard Oil Station and a cafe. Today, the Wagon Wheel Motel stands as a beautifully preserved example of mid-century roadside architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, welcoming visitors seeking a nostalgic experience along the iconic highway.
Around the same time that Route 66 was being constructed, economic shifts were occurring in the manufacturing sector. Rising labor costs prompted shoe manufacturers to seek more affordable locations for their plants, leading many to relocate to rural areas. This influx of industry provided another economic boon for Cuba, and the shoe industry remained a vital part of the town’s economy for over six decades, providing employment and contributing to the community’s growth.
As visitors approach Cuba, Missouri, they are greeted by a blend of the old and the new. A more recent addition to the Route 66 landscape is Missouri Hick Barbeque, a popular eatery that serves up delicious Ozark-style barbecue. While not a vintage establishment, its name and ambiance perfectly capture the spirit of Route 66. The restaurant features an upstairs outdoor deck, offering a great vantage point for watching the passing traffic during the warmer months. For those seeking a glimpse into the past, the restored Carr Phillips 66 Service Station, dating back to 1932, stands proudly at the corner of Washington and Franklin Streets. This beautifully preserved station provides a tangible link to the golden age of automobile travel, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.
What truly sets Cuba, Missouri, apart from other towns along Route 66 is its dedication to public art. The Viva Cuba organization embarked on an ambitious project in 2001, with the goal of creating a series of murals that would celebrate the town’s history, culture, and connection to the Mother Road. These murals have transformed the town into an open-air art gallery, attracting visitors and earning Cuba the official designation of "Route 66 Mural City" by the Missouri House and Senate. Each mural tells a unique story, depicting scenes from Cuba’s past, honoring local figures, and capturing the essence of Route 66. The murals not only enhance the town’s aesthetic appeal but also serve as a powerful reminder of its rich heritage.
A short drive southwest of Cuba, located at 822 Beamer Lane, lies Bob’s Gasoline Alley, a hidden gem for Route 66 enthusiasts. This unique attraction boasts the most extensive collection of Historic Route 66 gasoline memorabilia in the Midwest, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history of roadside service stations. While the buildings are typically open only during special events, the outdoor displays can be viewed at any time, providing ample photo opportunities for those eager to capture the spirit of the Mother Road.
Continuing along Route 66 from Cuba, travelers will find themselves amidst the rolling hills and fertile lands of Missouri’s wine country. As they journey toward Rosati and St. James, they will pass by numerous wineries and vineyards, offering opportunities to sample local wines and experience the region’s viticultural heritage.