Litchfield, Illinois – Route 66 Proud!
Litchfield, Illinois, a city steeped in history and brimming with Route 66 nostalgia, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American Midwest. Its story, woven from the threads of railroad expansion, coal mining booms, and the iconic allure of the Mother Road, is one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering community pride. From its humble beginnings as a prairie settlement to its present-day status as a cherished Route 66 destination, Litchfield invites visitors to step back in time and experience the authentic charm of a bygone era.
The origins of Litchfield are intrinsically linked to the iron horse. In the mid-19th century, the promise of a railroad line traversing the region sparked a flurry of anticipation and land speculation. When the Terre Haute, Alton, and St. Louis Railroad announced its plans, the Litchfield Town Company seized the opportunity, purchasing 80 acres of cornfields and prairie land. In the late fall of 1853, County Surveyor Thomas Gray meticulously laid out the town, dividing the land into 236 lots ready for sale.
Interestingly, the burgeoning community of Litchfield wasn’t the only settlement vying for the railroad’s favor. About two miles southwest, a small village named Hardinsburg had also been established, hoping to capitalize on the expected economic boost. However, fate intervened when the railroad’s route was finalized, bypassing Hardinsburg and its 50 residents in favor of Litchfield. Undeterred, the resourceful inhabitants of Hardinsburg made a remarkable decision: they would relocate their entire town to Litchfield.
The arduous process began in January 1854, with J.M. McWilliams leading the charge. He carefully moved his small store and house across the prairie grass using runners. As the railroad tracks crept closer to Litchfield, more and more residents of Hardinsburg followed suit, dismantling their homes and businesses and transporting them to the new town. By the time the first train arrived in the fall of 1854, the once-doomed Hardinsburg had effectively ceased to exist, its lifeblood transferred to the thriving Litchfield.
The burgeoning village quickly organized itself. On April 4, 1856, Litchfield formally incorporated, electing trustees and appointing its first Justice of the Peace and Police Magistrate. The town’s population swelled as more settlers arrived, drawn by the promise of economic opportunity and a vibrant community spirit. When the Civil War erupted in April 1861, Litchfield distinguished itself as the first town in Illinois to answer President Lincoln’s call for volunteers, demonstrating its patriotism and commitment to the Union cause.
The late 19th century brought further growth and diversification to Litchfield‘s economy. In 1875, the Order of St. Francis established the town’s first hospital, a humble beginning that would eventually evolve into a modern 138-bed facility dedicated in 1971. The 1880s witnessed the rise of coal mining, with the opening of two mines that provided employment for many residents and fueled the town’s economic engine. An unexpected discovery of a small pocket of oil led to Litchfield becoming the site of the first commercial oil production in Illinois, although this resource was soon depleted.
As the years rolled on, Litchfield continued to embrace progress and adapt to changing times. The arrival of five additional railroads further solidified the town’s importance as a transportation hub. Today, two of these railroads remain, including the historic Chicago, Burlington, Quincy, and Norfolk Southern lines, continuing to play a vital role in the region’s economy. However, it was the advent of the automobile and the construction of Route 66 that would forever etch Litchfield into the American cultural landscape.
The Mother Road, with its promise of adventure and freedom, transformed Litchfield into a bustling roadside oasis. Cafes, motels, and tourist stops sprung up along the highway, catering to the throngs of travelers making their way across the country. The western edge of Litchfield became a particularly popular stretch, with two distinct alignments of Route 66 running parallel to each other. Today, remnants of both original highways remain, attracting Route 66 enthusiasts eager to experience the nostalgic charm of a bygone era.
One of Litchfield‘s most iconic landmarks is the Sky View Drive-In, a Route 66 Hall of Fame inductee that continues to operate to this day. Opened in the spring of 1951, the drive-in has been entertaining moviegoers for generations. Its seasonal hours, typically running from April to October, offer a nostalgic experience under the stars. During the peak summer months, the Sky View Drive-In is open seven nights a week, providing a classic slice of Americana for locals and tourists alike. It proudly stands as the last operating drive-in theater on Historic Route 66 in Illinois.
Another cherished landmark is the Ariston Cafe, a culinary institution that has been serving up delicious meals since 1924. Originally established in nearby Carlinville by Pete Adam, the cafe relocated to Litchfield in 1929 when Route 66 was rerouted. As the Ariston’s reputation for exceptional food and service grew, Pete Adam built a new, larger building across the street in 1935, which still stands today. For over eighty years, the Ariston Cafe has been a beloved gathering place, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with classic American dishes. In June 2018, the cafe changed hands for the first time, marking the end of an era for the Adam family, but the new owners are committed to preserving the Ariston’s legacy and continuing its tradition of excellence.
Across the street from the Ariston Cafe stands a vintage sign that once advertised "Gas For Less" at Vic Suhling’s gas station. While the gas station is long gone, the sign remains, a quirky reminder of the past. Today, it playfully suggests that visitors will get "less gas" – a witty nod to the sign’s historical context. Interestingly, the gas station once occupied the same site as the first Litchfield Ariston Cafe.
Further down the road, travelers will find the Route 66 Cafe, another enduring establishment that continues to serve up classic diner fare. Adjacent to the cafe is an old gas station, and behind it, along the newer Route 66 alignment, stands the Belvidere Motel. While the Belvidere still operates, it now functions more like an apartment complex, offering weekly and monthly rentals.
Litchfield‘s dedication to preserving its Route 66 heritage is evident throughout the town. The community takes great pride in promoting the Mother Road and preserving its vintage icons. Each June, Litchfield hosts the Route 66 Classic Car Festival, a celebration of automotive history and the enduring allure of the open road. The festival draws car enthusiasts from far and wide, showcasing a stunning array of classic vehicles and providing a festive atmosphere for all.
A visit to Litchfield is a journey back in time, a chance to experience the authentic charm of a small town that has embraced its history and continues to thrive in the 21st century. As you explore its vintage landmarks, savor its classic diner fare, and soak up its friendly atmosphere, you’ll understand why Litchfield, Illinois, is truly Route 66 proud! So, buckle up, hit the road, and discover the magic of this Midwestern gem. And when you’re ready to continue your Route 66 adventure, head south towards another historic mining town: Mt. Olive.