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| The first project launched by the Route 66 Association of Kingman, Inc. |
So, until it was fanned into a blaze, the association survived as a glowing ember. On occasion there would a public display of life such as with establishment of Chillin’ on Beale during the administration of Chris Durkin.
Last month Scott Dunton, Keith Walker, and Craig Graves revived the 501c3 association, and asked that I serve as a consultant. To maintain neutrality and avoid any possible conflict of interest, with respect the request that I serve on the board of directors was declined. 
Here are the details I have at this time. The annual membership fee is $100, of which every dime will be used for development, promotion, or preservation. In exchange for this sum, you will receive a pretty slick metal plaque (thank you for the photo Rob Medlin), invitation to a monthly open house, a regular newsletter with event information and updates in Kingman as well as internationally that have a bearing on our 160-miles of smiles. You will also derive the satisfaction of helping transform the City of Kingman. Several local business people will have membership applications including yours truly. I will provide a list of these people as soon as its available.
However, Like James Martin, you may also stop by the historic Dunton Motors dealership at 119 E. Andy Devine Avenue (Route 66) in Kingman. For additional information the phone number is (928)753-1314.
The reorganization of the association is but one manifestation of the changes taking place in the cities historic district and along the Route 66 corridor.
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| The suites at the Brunswick Hotel. (Judy Hinckley) |
In the block along Andy Devine Avenue dominated by an historic territorial era saloon turned neighborhood tavern, a row of empty storefronts, the forlorn shell of the Hotel Beale, and Brunswick Hotel, a century old nondescript garage, and a parking lot with bus stop and informational kiosk, Werner Fleishman has transformed a vintage dealership showroom turned antique store into Route 66 Ice Cream Parlor and the Vita Bella Deli and Cafe.
Hidden behind the Brunswick Hotel in a pleasant courtyard are two delightfully charming suites. Currently for rent to visitors staying in the Kingman area for several days, they offer a glimpse into Werner’s vision for the historic Brunswick Hotel.
Almost an entire block on Beale Street between Fourth Street and Fifth Street is pulsating with vibrancy; an art center, the Wine Cellar, Redneck’s Southern Pit Barbecue, Black Bridge Brewery, Siren’s, and Beale Street Brews Coffee Shop and Roasting Company are the ghost of Christmas future in the historic district. The Garlic Clove restaurant is one block east.
Immediately to the west, the Kingman Club sign again lights the night and crowds that gather here at night provide another indication that the winds of change are sweeping the city. The changes, however, are not confined to just the historic district, they are sweeping along the entire Route 66 corridor.
Originally a Denny’s several decades ago, Rutherford’s 66 Family Diner is also thriving. William Shatner stopped here on his recent trip westward, and the owner is making plans for a most exciting remodel.
Across the street, the circa 1945 Bell Motel with its charming stone facade is being given a new lease on life. This could make Kingman a truly unique Route 66 community with four renovated vintage motels; one from the 1930’s, one from the 1940’s, one from the 1950’s, and one from the 1960’s.
The El Trovatore Motel, 1939, is thriving. The Hill Top Motel, 1956, is thriving. Mow the former Holiday Inn, the pride of Kingman in the 1960’s, is being reborn as the Ramada Kingman, the cities only Route 66 resort and it is thriving.
The owners of the Ramada are quite serious about seeing Kingman and their hotel transformed into a destination. In addition to colorful murals, a large Route 66 themed swimming pool, renovated rooms, lounge, and restaurant, and landscaped grounds, they are working hand in hand with area businesses to develop coordinated marketing and promotion.
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| An example of the type of vehicles the Ramada owners are considering for their proposed tours. (Joel Zubaid) |
Now there are plans afoot to offer area tours in the city and along our 160-miles of smiles. To ensure these are a memorable and unique experience for visitors, rolling time capsules will be the mode of transport.
To these exciting changes and developments we can add eager anticipation for what is coming soon at Grand Canyon Caverns. in 18 to 24 months, new levels with truly unique formations will be open to the public. This is in addition to the newly added trail rides and miniature golf course.
To all of this we can add the regularly scheduled events such as Sounds of Kingman, Chillin’ on Beale and the Route 66 Fun Run, and a few new ones currently under development; the Fourth of July block party, the Route 66 Walk of Fame induction ceremony, and Best of the West on 66.
Kingman, Arizona, a stop on the road to somewhere else and a destination. This city truly is at the crossroads of the past and future.
Great news all around and up and down old Route 66 Jim. I am very excited to be part of the effort to put Kingman back on the map like Williams and Seligman. Even though I was born in California I now call Kingman my home, and Arizona my adopted state. I love Kickin' in Kingman!