Gray Summit, Missouri – Meandering Through the Ozarks

Nestled in the rolling hills of northeastern Franklin County, Gray Summit, Missouri is an unincorporated community that whispers tales of a bygone era. Situated along the original path of the iconic Route 66, approximately five miles west of Pacific, Missouri, it offers a glimpse into the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, where history, nature, and the spirit of the open road converge. This unassuming locale, though not a bustling metropolis, holds a rich tapestry of stories woven from its early beginnings, its vital role in transportation history, and its enduring connection to the natural landscape.

The history of Gray Summit, Missouri is a journey through time, marked by changing names and evolving identities. Its origins can be traced back to June 1824 when a post office was first established. It was initially known as Point Labadie, a name derived from its elevated position and proximity to the meandering Labadie Creek. This name reflected the region’s early French influence and its reliance on the natural waterways for commerce and connection. However, the name was changed in January 1838 to Port William, honoring William T. North, the postmaster at the time. This shift signifies the growing American presence and the increasing importance of individuals in shaping the community’s identity.

The transformation of the community continued in 1845 with the arrival of Daniel Gray, a businessman from New York. Gray recognized the potential of the area and established a hotel, a vital amenity for travelers and a sign of burgeoning growth. Further solidifying its importance as a transportation hub, a railroad siding was constructed in 1853. These developments laid the groundwork for the formal establishment of a town.

In 1858, a pivotal moment arrived when E.P. Gray and other local settlers donated land for the formal platting of a town. This act of generosity and community spirit led to the official naming of the town as Gray’s Summit. The name honored Daniel Gray, acknowledging his contribution to the area’s development. The term "summit" was added to reflect its geographical location. Gray Summit, Missouri occupied the highest point on the Missouri Pacific Railroad between St. Louis and Jefferson City, making it a crucial point for rail transport.

During the tumultuous years of the Civil War, Gray Summit, Missouri played a role, albeit a minor one, in the conflict. It became the site of a camp known as Camp Franklin, sometimes referred to as Gray’s Camp. The exact purpose and activities of this camp are not extensively documented, but its presence indicates the town’s involvement, however small, in the larger national struggle.

The late 19th century brought further changes to Gray Summit, Missouri. In 1892, the name was officially shortened to Gray Summit, a more concise and memorable form. That same year, the Missouri Pacific Railroad, a crucial artery for the town’s economy, was acquired by the Union Pacific Railroad Company. This acquisition marked a shift in ownership and potentially brought new investment and development to the region.

The early 20th century ushered in the era of the automobile and the rise of Route 66. In 1926, the newly established US Highway 66 and Highway 50 were aligned through Gray Summit, transforming the town into a vital stop for travelers journeying across the country. This influx of traffic brought economic opportunities and a vibrant roadside culture, with motels, restaurants, and gas stations springing up to cater to the needs of motorists.

To accommodate the increasing rail traffic, a significant engineering project was undertaken in 1929. A railroad tunnel was constructed to add a second parallel track to the busy St. Louis to Kansas City mainline. This project eliminated the original route that crested the watershed boundary between the Meramec and Missouri Rivers, streamlining rail transport and further solidifying Gray Summit’s importance as a transportation hub.

However, the very highway that brought prosperity to Gray Summit, Missouri would eventually contribute to its decline as a major roadside attraction. In the early 1950s, Route 66 became increasingly congested. A decision was made to realign the highway to the south, bypassing the central portion of the town. This bypass, while improving traffic flow for long-distance travelers, diverted business away from Gray Summit, impacting its local economy.

Despite the bypass, Gray Summit, Missouri retains its charm and offers attractions for visitors seeking a glimpse into the past and a connection with nature. One popular destination is Parina Farms, an interactive farm where visitors can pet and feed farm animals and witness demonstrations of traditional farming practices such as sheep-shearing, cow milking, and caring for household pets. This provides a hands-on experience and a connection to the agricultural heritage of the region.

Another significant attraction is the Shaw Nature Reserve, a sprawling 2,400-acre preserve of natural Ozark landscapes. Established in 1925 and named after Henry Shaw, the founder of the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the reserve offers 1.5 miles of frontage along the scenic Meramec River. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, hike through wooded trails, and appreciate the beauty of the Ozark wilderness.

Remnants of Route 66’s heyday can still be found in Gray Summit, Missouri. The remains of the old Trail’s End Motel, located at 3218 W. Osage Street, serve as a poignant reminder of the town’s past. Though the motel itself is in ruins, a large sign spelling out "MOTEL" still stands, a ghostly sentinel harking back to a time when roadside lodging was a vital part of the American travel experience.

Further down the road, visitors can spot a large sign that once advertised both the Gardenway Motel and the Diamonds Restaurant. While the Diamonds portion of the sign has been removed, the rest remains standing in a commuter parking lot, a nostalgic landmark for those familiar with the history of Route 66.

The Gardenway Motel, named for the Henry Shaw Garden Way Road, was once a popular lodging option for travelers. Established in 1945 by Louis Eckelkamp, the motel grew to 41 rooms with tile baths. After Route 66 was bypassed by I-44, Eckelkamp added a long "GARDENWAY" sign on the roof to attract travelers on the interstate. Sadly, the Gardenway closed in 2014 and now sits abandoned, a silent testament to the changing fortunes of roadside businesses.

Today, Gray Summit, Missouri is a quiet community that offers a blend of history, nature, and a touch of nostalgia. While it may no longer be a bustling Route 66 stop, it retains a unique charm and provides a glimpse into the past. Its location amidst the Ozark foothills, its historical connections to transportation, and its proximity to natural attractions make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a peaceful escape and a connection to the heartland of America.