Riverton, Kansas – Route 66 Tiny Town
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Kansas, just a stone’s throw from the bustling-but-still-small town of Galena, lies Riverton, a diminutive community steeped in history and inextricably linked to the iconic Route 66. This unassuming locale, a true testament to the enduring spirit of small-town America, offers a glimpse into a bygone era when the Mother Road was the lifeblood of the nation. From its humble beginnings as a Quaker settlement to its pivotal role in powering the region’s mining boom, Riverton possesses a unique charm that captivates visitors and invites them to explore its rich heritage.
The story of Riverton begins long before the advent of Route 66. In its initial days, the area served as a peaceful haven for Quakers seeking religious freedom and a place to establish a close-knit community. However, the landscape of Riverton would be forever altered in the early 20th century with the rise of the mining industry. Recognizing the area’s potential, the Empire District Electric Company embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of a hydroelectric plant on Shoal Creek, just south of the Spring River. This endeavor would not only transform the physical environment but also propel Riverton into a new era of economic prosperity.
The completion of the Riverton hydroelectric plant marked a significant turning point for the region. The damming of Shoal Creek created Lake Lowell, a scenic reservoir that added to the area’s natural beauty. More importantly, the plant generated a substantial amount of electricity, enough to illuminate 80 communities and numerous mining operations throughout the tri-state area of Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. This power surge fueled the mining boom, providing the necessary energy to extract valuable resources from the earth. The plant, a towering testament to engineering ingenuity, continues to operate today, standing as the primary employer and a defining landmark of this small Route 66 tiny town.
For travelers following the path of Route 66, the journey through Riverton offers a chance to connect with the past. In the heyday of the Mother Road, motorists heading west from Galena would have encountered a captivating sight: the Marsh Rainbow Arch Bridge spanning the Spring River. This architectural marvel, constructed in 1922, was a vital link in the Route 66 corridor, carrying countless vehicles and travelers across its three graceful spans. Sadly, this iconic bridge was dismantled in 1986, a loss mourned by preservationists and history enthusiasts alike. Its absence serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of Route 66, where progress and nostalgia often collide.
Further along the route, between Galena and Riverton, once stood Camp Joy, a popular motor court and gas station that catered to the needs of weary travelers. This roadside haven provided a welcome respite for those traversing the Mother Road, offering comfortable accommodations and essential services. However, like many similar establishments along Route 66, Camp Joy faded into obscurity by the 1960s, a casualty of changing travel patterns and the rise of interstate highways. Its memory lingers only in faded photographs and the recollections of those who experienced its hospitality firsthand.
Adjacent to the electric plant, north of Lake Lowell, the Spring River Inn and a country club were built in 1905. In its early days, this establishment catered to the wealthy patrons from Galena, quickly establishing itself as the social center of the area. Boasting luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and recreational amenities, the Spring River Inn and country club provided a playground for the elite. However, the onset of the Great Depression brought an end to this era of opulence. In 1932, the club was sold and repurposed as a boating club, reflecting the changing economic realities of the time.
The Spring River Inn experienced a revival in 1952, reopening its doors to cater to the burgeoning number of travelers along Route 66. The restaurant became renowned for its lavish 35-foot buffet table, laden with home-cooked dishes, delectable cinnamon pull-apart rolls, and unique squaw bread. The Inn and restaurant provided a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Midwestern hospitality. Unfortunately, this resurgence was short-lived. The Inn and restaurant closed in the mid-1990s, and a few years later, a devastating fire consumed the Inn, leaving only ashes and memories behind. The restaurant, a beloved culinary landmark, never reopened, marking the end of an era.
Despite the loss of these historic landmarks, Riverton retains a palpable connection to its Route 66 past. The town’s most prominent attraction is undoubtedly the Eisler Brothers Store, a one-of-a-kind establishment that has stood the test of time. Constructed in 1925, the building originally served as a Standard Station, providing gasoline and automotive services to travelers. In 1932, a "Y Not Eat Barbecue" stand was added, offering hungry motorists a taste of classic roadside fare. The Eisler family acquired the location in 1973 and transformed it into a market and deli, preserving its historic charm while adapting to the needs of the modern traveler.
The Eisler Brothers Store is a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia. The building’s original pressed tin ceiling evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting visitors back to the golden age of the Mother Road. Inside, a wide array of Route 66 souvenirs awaits, allowing travelers to commemorate their journey with tangible reminders of their experience. The deli counter offers a variety of old-fashioned sandwiches, providing a delicious and authentic taste of Americana. Visitors can relax on the store’s front porch, soaking in the atmosphere and watching as fellow Route 66 enthusiasts pass by, connecting with the enduring spirit of the Mother Road.
Continuing west through Riverton, at the junction of Route 66 with 69 Alternate & U.S. 400, travelers would once have encountered another Marsh Arch Bridge, affectionately known as the "Rainbow Bridge." This bridge, located between Riverton and Baxter Springs, was a beloved landmark, its graceful arches providing a scenic gateway to the next chapter of the Route 66 adventure.
In 1992, the construction of a softer curve bypassed the Rainbow Bridge at Brush Creek. After a determined effort by the Kansas Route 66 Association, county officials agreed to preserve the Brush Creek Bridge as a historic landmark. Today, the bridge stands as a testament to the importance of preserving Route 66’s legacy, allowing travelers to experience a tangible connection to the past. The bridge can be viewed in its historical setting and can be driven by southbound traffic only, providing a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the engineering marvels of the Mother Road.
Having explored the quaint charm of Riverton, travelers can continue their journey to Baxter Springs, Kansas’s First Cowtown, where a wealth of Old West history and Route 66 icons awaits. Riverton, despite its small size, serves as a valuable reminder of the historical significance of Route 66 and how it has shaped the cultural landscape.