Ambler's Texaco Gas Station

Pull beneath the green-roofed canopy and start with the tall red Texaco pumps—the details that turn this little white station into a time machine. Jack Shore built the house-and-canopy station in 1933, and Basil “Tubby” Ambler managed it from 1938 to 1966. Pumps, windows, rooflines, and oil brands changed as the road changed, but fuel service continued for 66 years, followed by auto repair until 2002. After owner Philip Becker donated the property, Dwight restored the office to its 1930s look and the service bays to the 1940s; today volunteers welcome Route 66 travelers here as the village visitor center.The restored exterior and pumps are the dependable experience. The Village confirms that the visitor center is volunteer staffed but does not publish regular 2026 interior hours, so call 815-584-3077 before planning to go inside. Do not treat an unstaffed or locked door as permission to enter. More

Pull beneath the green-roofed canopy and start with the tall red Texaco pumps—the details that turn this little white station into a time machine. Jack Shore built the house-and-canopy station in 1933, and Basil “Tubby” Ambler managed it from 1938 to 1966. Pumps, windows, rooflines, and oil brands changed as the road changed, but fuel service continued for 66 years, followed by auto repair until 2002. After owner Philip Becker donated the property, Dwight restored the office to its 1930s look and the service bays to the 1940s; today volunteers welcome Route 66 travelers here as the village visitor center.The restored exterior and pumps are the dependable experience. The Village confirms that the visitor center is volunteer staffed but does not publish regular 2026 interior hours, so call 815-584-3077 before planning to go inside. Do not treat an unstaffed or locked door as permission to enter. More