Boots Motel, building in Carthage, Missouri
Boots Motel is a hotel in Carthage, Missouri, built in 1939 at a major road crossroads. The building features flat roofs, stucco walls, and glowing neon signs advertising its name and services, with small parking areas directly in front of each room door.
Arthur Boots opened the motel in 1939 during an economic downturn at a crossroads between two major roads. After World War II more rooms were added and it became known for visits from celebrities like Clark Gable.
The name Boots Court comes from founder Arthur Boots and became a landmark for travelers on Route 66. Today the motel reflects roadside travel culture, with guests settling into small rooms while neon signs glow in the evening.
Rooms are small and simply furnished with original hardwood floors and modern conveniences like air conditioning and free internet. The property is easy to navigate on foot, with wide parking areas for cars and recreational vehicles right beside the entrances.
The neon sign was carefully restored by a specialist and now glows in its original colors again. Bob Boots, son of the original owners, paid the 1939 night rate and was the first guest to stay after the restoration.
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