Route 66: Nostalgia from Arizona to California

After visiting the Grand Canyon (more on this later) we continued making our way West from Arizona to California, weaving in and out along the historic Route 66. Passing through the vast Mojave Desert evoked imagery of a bygone era in American history that I had only seen in old movies or read about in books. We were definitely California bound now and we felt like characters in an old Steinbeck novel (minus all of the dire events and the unfortunate ending…)  We were facing adventure head on and discovering unique places along the way. Countless new opportunities lay ahead, as extensive as the open road itself.

Classic Route 66
Classic Route 66

The Route

Originally running from Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 served as the main artery across the country giving way to booming roadside attractions and towns. With the completion of the Interstate Highway System in the late ‘50s however, sections of “The Mother Road” were slowly bypassed. This resulted in the decommission of Route 66 altogether leaving behind interesting opportunities to “get your kicks” …

Goodbye Arizona... weaving in and out of the state
Goodbye Arizona…
Hello California!- State Line
Hello California!
California Bound. Atlas on the road
California Bound

Ghostly Goffs

One such nostalgic epicenter is located in Goffs, California, a “not so ghostly” ghost town along the route. With a current population of 23 caring folks, this town has made a name for itself with their dedication to preservation. Through the work of the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association they were able to restore the Goffs Schoolhouse originally built in 1914. This historic building which now houses a museum complete with interesting artifacts from the region is where you will begin your tour of the area. It is here that you will also meet Dennis and his trusty sidekick (pictured below) who will be happy to share noteworthy historic tidbits with you.

Entering the "ghost town"- Entering Goffs
Entering the “ghost town”
Goffs, California- The not so "ghostly" ghost town
Goffs, California- The not so “ghostly” ghost town
"Study the Past"
“Study the Past”
Our friendly <del>ghost</del> host...
Our friendly ghost host…
Restored Goffs Schoolhouse
Restored Goffs Schoolhouse

While making your way through the property you’ll find some unique artifacts that are a real treat to photograph. In addition to worn road signs, rusty gas pumps and vintage cars you’ll find a functioning stamp mill that is used for demonstrations from time to time. Goffs is a truly special place that has been frozen in time just like Route 66 itself.            

Detail of some of the memorabilia
Detail of some of the memorabilia
Old stamp mill
Old stamp mill
Antique artifacts on the property
Antique artifacts on the property
Manu waiting for the bus...
Manu waiting for the bus…
Vintage gas pump
Vintage gas pump
Old Buick
Old Buick
Roadside rest
Roadside rest
Where to next? Vintage road signs
Where to next?

 

Tips

  • Heading West towards Twentynine palms? While there be sure to stop by Amboy along Route 66 for an even more “ghost town” feel.
  • Another cool site is a visit to the nearby Amboy Crater.
  • Hungry while driving along Route 66? For a hearty and classic american meal visit Calico’s in Kingman, AZ.