Ernest Tubb's 1970s Tour Bus | Wicked Ollie's Vintage | Nashville, Tennessee | Landmark Landing

 

Ernest Tubb's Bus, taken by Jennie Moore, 2024

    Inside of one of Nashville's best vintage shops rests a legendary piece of classic country music history. Wicked Ollie's Vintage is worth the visit alone, but what the store is hiding inside makes it all the more fascinating. The relic I'm referring to is the tour bus of country music pioneer Ernest Tubb (1914-1984). I was lucky to be able to pay Wicked Ollie's a visit when in town with my mom and tour the bus ourselves. 

Ernest Tubb's Bus, taken by Jennie Moore, 2024

    The bus, called "The Green Hornet" is a 1964 Silver Eagle and was purchased by Ernest Tubb in 1970 from the Trailways Bus Company. Throughout the 1970s, Tubb and his band, the Texas Troubadours, traveled three million miles on the bus. They traveled to all 48 continental states, and into Canada. It was in 1995 that the bus was restored to its current state, and is now staged to appear as it did in Tubb's prime touring days.

Ernest Tubb

    Ernest Dale Tubb was born on February 9th, 1914, in Crisp, Texas. Nicknamed "The Texas Troubadour", Tubb entered the scene with honky-tonk hit "I'm Walking the Floor Over You" in 1941, becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1942. He also created the radio show "Midnight Jamboree" in 1947 that still airs today. Tubb led an incredibly impressive career, earning himself an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Ernest passed away on September 6th, 1984, in Nashville, Tennessee, and is buried at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.

Ernest Tubb's Bus, taken by Jennie Moore, 2024

    Originally the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, the building was built around the bus. It then became a part of the store unit just next to the Texas Troubadour Theater in the Music Valley Village Plaza, today the location of Wicked Ollie's. What better location for a vintage bus than a vintage store? This location is a great stop for classic country fans across the board, with the bus being surrounded by vintage country music goodies. 

Ernest Tubb's Bus, taken by Jennie Moore, 2024

    It was surreal walking through the bus that carried such a legend. There are more buses on display throughout the area, and I intend to check them out in the future. Thank you for joining me on another adventure, and I hope to see you next time. If you check out the bus or Wicked Ollie's, leave me a comment and tell me about your visit! 

A Quaint and Cozy Bookstore | The Book Bridge | Branson, Missouri | Small Business Sunday

 

The Book Bridge taken by Jennie Moore

    Hello everyone, welcome to the blog! Today's stop is a cute and quaint bookstore that I think many of you will enjoy. My family and I recently visited Branson, Missouri, and one of my favorite stops is historic downtown. The strip is amazing, but if you're anything like me, old downtown isn't something you want to miss. On this trip, we stumbled upon The Book Bridge, and I couldn't wait to share with y'all.

    We visited in late September, so downtown was decked out in autumn decor, including The Book Bridge! I found this so warm and charming, I couldn't help but get a buzz off the cozy vibes. I browsed the shelves and was pleased by how many books across every genre were included in the currently running sale! I browsed the shelves, and for a smaller space, this shop has a wonderful selection. 

    After browsing the shelves, I carefully made my selections. I have a wish list of reads I'm looking for and was able to score two books on the list, both by popular author Emily Henry. For a large hardcover, I spent twelve dollars, and for a paperback, nine dollars. I certainly can't complain about the prices, as these were much less compared to the copies I had priced at other, bigger box stores. Sweet! It is also worth mentioning that the staff member I spoke to was very kind and helpful as well! 

 If you're a bookworm visiting the Branson area, I recommend you stop by The Book Bridge! I love historic downtown, and this is a great addition. If you visit, let me know which reads you pick up! I'm always open to recommendations. Thank you for tuning in and I'll see you at my next stop! 

Visiting the American Pickers' Nashville Shop - Antique Archaeology, Nashville, Tennessee | Landmark Landing

 

Antique Archaeology, taken by Jennie Moore

    Hi all, and welcome back or greetings if you're new! I got to check off one of the stops on my bucket list, and I wanted to share that experience with you. If you enjoy my content, there is a likelihood you are familiar with the History Channel TV show, "American Pickers". If not, a brief rundown; two guys in a van travel the United States and search for vintage and antique treasures. They specialize in searching in old barns and buildings filled to the ceiling with collectables that typically haven't been touched in twenty years. Bonus points if the owner of the collection is a grumpy older gentlemen who isn't interested in selling anything. I really enjoy the show and watching them hunt for these hidden gems across America. 

    I remember watching the show often on summer mornings with my step father, after he had gotten home after a long night shift. When school was out, him and I would watch TV together until it was time for him to go to bed for the rest of the day. American Pickers was in our main rotation, and to be completely honest, became a reminder of good times. Those of you who know me will know that I fight chronic illness, and tend to find myself in the hospital a few times a year. Those who are in a similar boat know just how important and soothing watching TV can be when cooped up in a hospital room for days on end. One channel that any hospital TV will have, is the History Channel. When poor health finds me and must be dealt with, you can find me in my room watching American Pickers. From my hospital bed, I can travel many miles without a hair of stress on the body. Myself and whoever is visiting at the time will chat about the pickers' finds and the history behind them. It's amazing what troubles can be made bearable by means of passion and community, something as small as discussing a common interest. 

    One thing I hold true to, is taking advantage of and being grateful for my days of better health. I get a lot of those these days, thanks to my amazing medical team, and our good Lord. I vow to use the better days to explore the world myself, the world that I have spent a lot of my time watching from a bed in a beige painted room. I have spent many good days in vain, out of fear, insecurity, and I lacked understanding of the magnitude of how small daily decisions can impact the general narrative of your life over time. I am more eager to say "yes" to the opportunities to enjoy life each day. Now, with my new mindset and this blog, I like to think I can be your eyes into the world during those times you can't see things for yourself. Everyone deserves to have access to that knowledge, and experience our world and people's vibrancy. 

    Anyway, I'm getting off track but I have decided to be more personal in my writing, to be a better friend to you. I hope you don't mind. With all of that being said,  a while back I had the opportunity to visit Antique Archaeology, the store that sells all of the treasures that the American Pickers find on their adventures. I went with my mom to the location in Marathon Village (a neat place as well) in Nashville, Tennessee. I'll admit, most of what was in the store was over my budget, but I wasn't going there with strict expectations to buy something. To me, it was like a museum. Looking at each piece and wondering where it had come from and what its story was, or maybe if I could even spot it in the show. Just knowing that it had likely traveled hundreds of miles and maybe even experienced a restoration to end up here. I ended up taking a photo of one piece that really stood out to me, and had I not been a broke teenager at the time of this trip, would've maybe purchased. 

Vintage neon sign, taken by Jennie Moore

    This old sign really caught my eye. I'm no sign collector, but I can appreciate some vintage neon. I tried to research this sign and get some information on it, but I have had no luck. Even a reverse image search yielded nothing. If you know anything about this sign, I would love to hear about it! Leave me a comment, message, or email. I find that it reminded me of an ancient figure, like an Egyptian Pharaoh or noble statue that knows something we don't. The sign in fairly large in size, as you can see it next to several full sized instruments. Even if I did have the money, I'm not sure my mom would appreciate me cramming this into the back of her Ford Escape. 

    I had a great time wandering throughout the store with my head in the clouds. I did get an iron on patch with the companies logo on it, to add to my patch collection that I will add to my denim jacket... eventually. Being able to do these things on my better days make the flare up days a well worth it payment, and a lesson that God teaches me more on everyday. I'm on a mission to appreciate the gifts of life in full, and be truly aware of the blessings we experience everyday. Thank you for coming on this journey with me, and as always, thank you for reading.

Bufordville, Missouri Antique Shop | Small Business Sunday

 

Antique Store in Burfordville, Missouri taken by Jennie Moore

    Hello everyone, and welcome back to the blog. Today I want to share with you a neat shop that my father and I went to a few months ago. Many drive right past the small community of Bufordville, Missouri each day. Though history and nature lovers alike may know this village for it's historic Bollinger Mill and covered bridge (you can read my article on those by clicking here.) Just across the street from the landmark sits this quaint, colorful antique store. It had been closed during my previous visits to the mill, but this day was my lucky one.

"The Little Blue Free Library" on front porch taken by Jennie Moore

    

    The front porch alone boasts an array of interesting pieces, luring the curious minds inside. My favorite would have to be the "Little Blue Free Library". I love the concept of these libraries, as it is a way to encourage reading to any community with no cost needed, just the generosity of book donations. Upon entering, we were greeted by a warm hello from friendly gentlemen, and a soft spoken lady. I couldn't help but feel as if I had known this duo for years, although that surely wasn't the case.

"Antiques" Sign on side of building taken by Jennie Moore

    The building itself I would estimate dates from the mid to late 1800s, being covered in wooden siding accompanied by wavy glass in the windows. In the rear, the wooden floor boards bow where flood waters have repeatedly tested the structure's integrity. Though it still stands, telling the stories of years ago. I wonder how many people have walked in and out of the same doors, roaming the same routes that I myself would take through the winding antiques. 

Nuts from the neighboring covered bridge, taken by Jennie Moore

    While browsing, I came across these nuts on display that once were home to the Bufordville covered bridge, which itself dates to 1858. These were much larger than any I had seen before, definitely not something you will find at your local hardware store. I always enjoy learning about America's historical building methods, as the craftsmanship and talent required to make these engineering feats are nothing short of impressive in a time before power tools and electronics.  

Vintage vinyl section in store, taken by Jennie Moore

    As an avid vintage shopper, I always enjoy flipping through the albums in any store. I must say that this collection was the best I had ever seen in a secondhand shop. Perfectly curated from soft to psychedelic rock from the 1960s to 1980s, I could've taken them all home. The gentlemen at the counter came over, and we began to chat about music and our favorite artists. We had much in common in that department, and I could've spent the day listening to what he had to say about each album.

Front porch of store, taken by Jennie Moore

    If you are ever in the area, rather just passing by or paying a visit to the bridge and mill, I recommend taking the time to stop and look around. It is a little slice of heaven for a vintage collector and music lover, run by the kind of people that strike you like a breath of fresh air. I always treasure my conversations with strangers, especially those as kind as these. I see the beauty in humans among these people, a reminder we all need at times. If you stop in, let me know what you found! Thank you for reading, as always.

Lakeforest Mall - Gaithersburg, Maryland | Abandoned

Lakeforest Mall taken by Jennie Moore

     Today’s blog post is a bit different than usual, but exhibits an interest of mine that I have had for a long time. Abandoned retail is a niche but passionate community that I stumbled upon several years ago. Something about the fallen empires of the modern world is alluring, yet haunting. My favorite content on the subject is created by Jake Williams (Bright Sun Films) and Dan Bell (This is Dan Bell) on YouTube. I highly recommend you check them out. 

Lakeforest Mall, taken by Jennie Moore

     I visited Lakeforest Mall on my 8th grade field trip to Washington D.C. It was around that time that my eye for dated architecture began developing, giving me some new found inspiration for my photos. The photos I took, at age 14, are the ones you see in this post. Although they are far from professional, they are still some of my favorites in my portfolio solely because of the subject matter. 

Lakeforest Mall, taken by Jennie Moore

     Lakeforest Mall was built in 1978, at the height of the American mall boom. It was wildly successful, as most were at the time. People flocked from all over to the trendy stores and flashy food court. The facility became a local staple, continuing to grow throughout the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. This trend was steady, until the arrival of the 2010s, when the mall began to see a change. This change, is known as online shopping. The wide variety along with availability that could once only be found in a mall, had come to the people’s fingertips. 

Lakeforest Mall, taken by Jennie Moore

     In 2012, the mall was valued at $100 million dollars. This would ultimately be the last hoorah for Lakeforest. In the following years, all four anchor stores would leave the mall, along with their smaller counterparts. Lakeforest was sold for $19.1 million dollars in 2017, a minuscule amount compared to just five years earlier. I visited the mall in 2016, and I remember it’s quiet, echoey wings were far from active. 

Lakeforest Mall, taken by Jennie Moore

     Lakeforest Mall’s final day in business was March 31st, 2023. It was open 44 years. It is set to be demolished in 2024. I wanted to share my photos of Lakeforest, to forever capture it in time. They are my first photos in the genre, and ignited my interest in liminal spaces. I hope you find these interesting and inspiring like I have. 

Patti’s 1880s Settlement | Landmark Landing

     

     At the time I’m writing this post, my mother and I are traveling. We’re making our way through western Kentucky, bound for Tennessee. Our appetites were growing, and she had made a suggestion of where we should stop to eat. She recalled a place she had eaten once before, called Patti’s 1880s Settlement. Just from the name, of course I was interested. 

     This restaurant is completely 1880s themed, even down to the clothing of the employees. The entrance features a fair sized gift shop, full of decor, knickknacks, and souvenirs. We were seated after a short wait, (and after I had purchased a magnet for my already overcrowded refrigerator door) and greeted by the kindest staff. 

     Imagine my surprise when the waitress brought to the table a terracotta flower pot with fresh homemade bread flowing out of it. She placed a small cup on the table, filled with their specialty, strawberry butter. I’ll admit I was skeptical, but now I insist that you all try it. The sweet and savory combination is to die for. Both my mother and I both ordered seafood, and we both agree it was fabulous. 

     If you are ever near Grand Rivers, Kentucky, I highly recommend stopping by Patti’s 1880s Settlement. Not only a great eatery, but it is surrounded by a quaint, charming village. If you ever visit, let me know what you think! 

Rivermines IGA | When It Stood

 

Rivermines IGA, taken by Jennie Moore December 2018

        In small town America, places like your local grocery store are so much more than the items they sell. They became a place to socialize, hang out, or find your favorite treat. A great example of this is Rivermines IGA, in the once bustling town of Rivermines, now within the city limits of Park Hills, Missouri. My father, Gary Moore, recalls fond memories of visiting the IGA as a child.

        Gary, his mother, and his siblings were from North St. Louis, a place of hustle and bustle. They took a leap of faith and moved to what is now Park Hills, in 1967. This was a change of scenery for the bunch, and somewhat of a culture shock. My father expressed to me that he quickly fell in love with how small town folk took such pleasure in the most mundane of tasks. Grocery shopping was not a burden, but an opportunity leave the house, visit with friends, and try something new. What was once viewed as a drag, became a highlight of one's day.

        Although I was unable to find an exact build date, my father recalls riding bicycles with friends and siblings to Rivermines IGA from the time they moved to the area, and well into the 1970s. The ride from their home in Elvins was a treat, one enjoyed as often as possible. "Mom got her hair done at the beauty shop near the IGA, and we would go into the store while we waited on her." he said. He recalls the staff as being "very friendly", always wearing a smile on their faces. "You couldn't leave without seeing someone you knew." he continued.

1977 Rivermines IGA Advertisement, courtesy of The Daily Journal

        At the time, IGA ran a red, white, blue, and beige theme. Yellowed tile ran the floors, shelving filled the open space, and florescent lights hung from the ceiling. "What was your must have item that you always got at Rivermines IGA?" I asked my father. "Honestly..." he said, "plain ole bologna." he chuckled. You see, IGA stores were kind to lower class families like my father's. Prices on basics were competitively low, a blessing for those in a pinch. It was a place you could go, and know you would come out with something to put on the table, free of judgment. 

        Rivermines IGA did a good business until, my father guesses, the late 1980s. When big box stores came into the area, mom and pop grocery stores found it impossible to keep up. Like many others across the country, massive chains, would force Rivermines IGA to close their doors. Now on the lot, ironically, sits a Dollar General. I am thankful to have snapped the photo above, just months before the original building was razed. Not only was it a symbol of mid-century culture, but a remnant of the former town of Rivermines, as it read on the building's face. I encourage you to share your stories and memories in the comments, as they are so valuable.  I would also like to thank my dad, for sharing your memories with us. Now they will be preserved for those like me, who missed that time in history. Thank you all for taking this trip with us, and I hope you enjoyed.

Twelve Mile Creek Emporium | Small Business Sunday

Photo courtesy of Pamela Allen

     Hi everyone, and welcome back to the blog!  Today, I'm going to be sharing a location that holds a special place in my heart.  This is Twelve Mile Creek Emporium, Wine Cottage, and Bed and Breakfast in Caledonia, Missouri.  Twelve Mile Creek is a family owned business with something for everyone.  Not only do they offer the amenities in the title, but they also offer home decor, freshly made meals, baked goods, and locally made products of all kinds.   

     In addition to the wonderful business itself, Twelve Mile Creek resides in a historic landmark.  This building goes by names such as the Fisher/Fischer Home, Caledonia Wine Cottage, the Ramsey House, or simply The Big Yellow House.  Whatever you may call it, this is a location with history to the brim, and a big story to tell.

Walnut Staircase, courtesy of Pamela Allen

     The Big Yellow House was constructed in 1824 by Jacob Fischer, making it one of Caledonia's oldest standing structures.  Over time the building has served as many occupations, but was originally built as a stage coach stop and inn.  Coaches would pull to the front of the building, where passengers would exit onto the same stone walkway that serves Twelve Mile Creek customers today.  During this time, travelers and stage coach drivers would frequently lodge in the inn's twelve original rooms.  

     When built, the inn consisted of two separate structures.  The front, rectangular portion of the building was for lodgers,  and the structure behind served as slave quarters.  Tunnels ran from either side of the inn to the slave quarters, with a third tunnel extending to the creek.  These tunnels can still be seen from the basement. The two structures were joined together some time around 1860, to form the home we all recognize today.  Though this isn't the only unique feature of the home.  The Fischer House is home to a continuous, three-story walnut staircase, the only one of its kind in the Ozarks.  The property also houses the 2nd oldest persimmon tree in Missouri, which still drops persimmons seasonally!

Quarantine Room as of today, courtesy of Pamela Allen

     As one of the homes many purposes, it was overtaken by the Union Army in the American Civil War, and turned into a hospital.  The hospital treated both Union and Confederate soldiers from The Battle of Pilot Knob, saving many lives that day.  A room on the third floor of the home was converted to a quarantine room for contagious patients, with a hole being cut from the door to serve the patient's food through.  The lock and hole in the door still exist today.  Along with saving the lives of soldiers, the home also served as a stop on the underground railroad.  Slaves were led through the tunnels, northward to freedom. The Fischer House treated and freed many men, women, and children, who likely wouldn't have survived if it were not for the Big Yellow House and it's gracious owners.  

Product sold at Twelve Mile Creek, courtesy of Pamela Allen

     Over time, the Fischer House served as a residence to several families, leaving many with fond memories of the home and its tenants.  Before it became the booming business we know now, the Fischer House had fallen in disrepair.  I had the pleasure of touring the home before the Allen's (the current owners) just prior to their purchase of the property.  I must say, it was heartbreaking to see this landmark in such condition.  Though we have Pamela, Roger and the rest of the Allen clan to thank for single-handedly saving this historic property.  This family has put blood, sweat, and tears into this home, bringing it back to life.  Myself, along with many others have so much admiration for what the Allen family has put into not only the Fischer House, but the Village of Caledonia.

 California Spaghetti Salad served at Twelve Mile Creek, courtesy of Pamela Allen

     Though the best part of this national treasure, is that it's for sale.  After years of hard work, the Allen family is ready to retire.  Pamela says "The time has come for us to find the perfect caretaker for this historic beauty. Retirement beckons us and we would like to heed that call!  If you think you have what it takes, give us a look.  Possibilities are only as far as your imagination allows. Price is negotiable as to what you want it to be for you!"  If you are interested in making the Fischer House your own, you may call Twelve Mile Creek at 573-779-1238, or pay a visit at 128 S State Highway 21, Caledonia, Missouri 63631. 

Wine selection at Twelve Mile Creek, courtesy of Pamela Allen

     Thank you all very much for reading, and I hope this landmark excites you as much as it does me.  Perhaps you will pay a visit, or even find your next home, or business.  I also want to thank Pamela Allen for allowing me to use her photos for this post, and always being so kind during my visits to Twelve Mile Creek.  I hope you tune in to the blog again soon!

Love,

Jennie

Small Town Saturday | Irondale, Missouri

 

Camp Irondale Staff, 1960

     Hi everyone, and welcome back to the blog!  Today, I am so excited to introduce my newest series, Small Town Saturday.  In this series, I will be talking about my favorite small towns.  I will highlight their founding, history, and what life is like there.  I conjured up the idea for this series when pondering on how small towns, which are often looked over, could get more recognition.  These bypassed places are gems just waiting to be found, and I want to help bring them to the light.

     I am starting this series off with Irondale, Missouri.  Irondale is a quaint village located in Washington County, with a population of 447.  Irondale was first laid out in 1857 by John G. Scott, who built an iron furnace there.  Scott later sold his iron furnace to Edwin Harrison and Company, who operated the furnace until 1880.  Edwin Harrison and Company also bought 13,000 acres of land at the time, including the site of present day Irondale.  Not long after, the now company town was surveyed by Belt and Priest, and was called Irondale for its iron furnace.

 Irondale Milling Co.

     Irondale was formed from three different assets, the company which operated the iron furnace, and two small prior settlements.  These two settlements went by the names of Mineral City and Log Town.  Mineral City sat on the west side of Dry Creek, where iron ore was hauled from the ore bank neighborhood.  Log town sat on the east side of Dry Creek, and was named for a handful of log homes in the area used as dwellings.

     By 1867, just ten years after being platted, Irondale gained its own post office.  The town was doing well, and had many assets to offer the people.  With the iron furnace in full swing, mining also became a large operation.  Mining had begun in Washington County as early as 1823, when the Springfield Iron Furnace was opened on Furnace Creek.  The mines in Irondale put out iron, lead, and even zinc.

Savoy Railroad Depot, 1912   

     One of Irondale's most notable early memories, was when the town experienced a brief name change.  Due to mail mix ups between Ironton and Iron Mountain due to similar names, Irondale changed its name to Savoy in 1906.  Though the name did not stick, and after just a few years the town turned back to its original name of Irondale.

Irondale Railroad Depot and crew

     Another vital trait to Irondale, was the railroad.  The St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway moved into the area in the mid 1800's, and made its way directly through Irondale.  The railroad was a major asset for Irondale, and although Missouri has many abandoned rail lines as of today, this is not one of them.  Though the trains no longer stop in Irondale, the line put in place near 150 years ago, is still very active.  Freight trains rumble through multiple times a day, and if you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of Amtrak's "Texas Eagle" passenger train gliding through the night.  Irondale's railway line has changed hands multiple times over the years.  It was built and operated the St. Louis, Iron Mountain, and Southern Railway, which was later sold to Missouri Pacific, and is now owned by Union Pacific, one of the biggest railroad companies in the country.

    William Helms Jr. (The Iron Mountain Baby) pictured with the bag he was found in

     The railroad also provided transportation to the popular Camp Irondale, and is most famous for the story of the Iron Mountain Baby.  On August 14th, 1902, William Helms (June 5th, 1835 - December 13th, 1917) a local farmer and Civil War veteran was walking along the railroad tracks in Irondale.  Upon meeting where the line went over Big River, Helms stood aside while northbound No. 4 blew by over the trestle.  Afterward, Helms began to move on with his walk when a strange noise caught his attention.  He traced the noise to what he described as an "old fashioned telescoping valise".  Inside, he was shocked to find a baby, which had been thrown from the train, and had fallen fifty feet.  The child had sustained serious injuries, but was alive.  After taking the child to be examined, it was determined that it was a boy, estimated a five days old.  Helms took the child home to his wife, where he was nursed back to health, and adopted by the family.  He was named William Moses Gould Helms, after his new father, the railroad owner, and being found on the water.  William Jr. went on to recover and live a full life, and the St. Louis, Iron Mountain, and Southern Railway paid for his schooling at Braughton's University, and Southwest Missouri State Teachers College (now Missouri State University). 

Boy Scouts arriving in Irondale by train, 1922

   

     Many residents of Irondale have fond memories of the railroad.  "I remember as a kid, hobos would always get off the train and come to our house.  I believe our house was marked in some way, like they knew it was safe to come to."  Said Paul Lashley.  "I remember as a kid, always running outside when I heard the train coming to watch it go by, but I think I only caught it three or four times."  Said Jennifer Lashley.

     The old Depot Saloon Building, taken by Jennie Moore

     Even though the passing of time has left Irondale with no train stops, plenty of hints to Irondale's railroading past still remain.  With a keen eye, several sites can be found that allude to the town's once hopping railroad scene.  One of my personal favorite remains is the old Depot Saloon, which is located behind the Blue Haven Cafe, across the railroad tracks.  The building was constructed in the late 1800's as an office for the local zinc mines, but was later converted into the Depot Saloon.  Stories passed down by those who visited the saloon tell of how locomotives used to stop in front of the saloon in order for the railroad crew, including the engineer to purchase beer.  At the time, beer was sold in metal buckets, which would be loaded back onto the train.  If you look closely at the photo, you can still see the faded paint job on the building which reads "Old Lynch Rye", which was an advertisement often found on bars and saloons at the time all throughout Missouri and the Midwest.  Not many of these paint jobs have stood the test of time, which is just another reason I love this site so much.

   1856 Stone Arch Railroad Bridge, taken by Jennie Moore

     Another railroad relic that can be seen today is the stone arch railroad bridge which sits over Dry Creek.  This bridge was built in 1856, is one of the oldest bridges in Missouri, and one of the oldest bridges in the country that is still in service.  It is admirable structure that still serves a big purpose in Irondale.

The old Railroad/Kirkpatrick Building, taken by Jennie Moore

   
     Perhaps the most iconic site on the list is the old railroad building, also known as the Kirkpatrick place, which sits near the stone arch bridge.  The residents of Irondale will tell you that it has looked the same as long as they can remember, as if time had progressed to a point and stopped.  The building was reportedly built in 1867 as a hotel, and later became railroad offices.  "My great-grandfather was a bellhop when he was younger.  It shut down in the 60's."  Said Kayla DeSherlia on Youtube.  "The building was owned by my grandfather and grandmother in the early 1920's, John Ace Eye and Sally Anis Smith Eye.  Not sure when it was sold, but it belonged to the Kirkpatrick family in the 1940's."  Said Rose Dickey on YouTube.

Irondale Pool 2019, taken by Jennie Moore

   
     Another thing Irondale is known for, is the old Boy Scout camp, or Camp Irondale.  The camp was first opened in 1920, but scouts began camping in the area as early as 1913.  The camp began under the name Camp Irondale when land was donated to the St. Louis Council by Clarance Howard.  The community was very supportive of the camp, with nearly all of the lumber used being donated by a local mill, and assembled by farmers.  Though the camp started small, it gained traction fast.  In 1945, an Olympic sized pool was opened at camp Irondale, which replaced the previous spring fed pool.  Rumor has it, this was the first Olympic sized pool not built for the Olympics.  The massive pool was wildly popular, and was in operation until the 1970's, even after the camp itself moved out.  "Growing up, Irondale Estates was in its prime and my brother Pat bought a lot so we could use the Olympic sized swimming pool. Needless to say my sisters and I had nice tans to begin fall classes with." Said Sue (Sucharski) Roney.

Inspiration Hall Chapel 2019, taken by Jennie Moore

     The camp also had many other features such as a chapel called "Inspiration Hall", a climbing tower, water tower, two lakes, several cabins, post office, pavilion, parade grounds, flag pole, nature lodge, and more.  Many of these are still standing, and can be visited today!  The camp was home to as many as 1,200 campers each summer, many of which still reflect on the memories made there.  The camp didn't have a suitable access road for vehicles for many years, meaning the campers arriving by train had to hike from the depot.  In 1938, the Camp had a special visitor, Marlin Perkins.  Perkins was a zoologist, and the host of television's "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom".  He spoke to the scouts, toured the camp, and even visited the "Snake Pit" of Irondale Nature Museum!  Also in 1938, the American Legion donated to the camp an "Indian Village" of six, 20 foot tepees with wooden floors.

Camp Irondale, courtesy of the Lashley/Sucharski family

     The camp remained in operation until 1965, until it met its successor, S-F Scout Ranch (Knob Lick, Missouri).  Now, a portion of the old camp is now a subdivision, known as Camp Irondale Estates.  Though Irondale still owns about 15 acres of the camp, which is in the process of restoration.  In 2010, the Ozark Trailblazers District in the Greater St. Louis area council worked throughout the spring and summer to restore parts of the camp that Irondale still owns.  The chapel, "Inspiration Hall", has been restored and is still in use as of 2019.  If you would like to help keep the camp's history alive, you can become a member of the Historical Society!  (See bottom of post for information on the Historical Society.)

Irondale Elementary class photo, courtesy of the Lashley/Sucharski family

     Even aside from the camp, many people have fond memories of growing up in Irondale.  Before West County schools existed, there was the Irondale Grade School.  Though this was no one room school house, but was a large, two story, stone building.  This school was heated by coal, and was said to have its own kitchen.  "My class in  Irondale was about 13, and when we went over to Leadwood for Junior High School, there were about 50 students between Irondale, Frankclay, and Leadwood.  I am proud to say we had good teachers all the way from Kindergarten to 12th grade." Said Sue (Sucharski) Roney.  "Irondale was a great place to grow up at." She added.  

Irondale boys and girls basketball team ,1923

     Though many small schools in the early 1900's were neglected sports and extra curricular activities, Irondale Grade School and surrounding area schools did not follow that path.  Irondale school children took part in sports, and competed with other school teams as early as the 1920's.  Irondale also had a yearly homecoming, that lasted many years after Irondale Grade School was closed.  "I remember even when I was a kid, it was a big deal.  It drew people from all over, and people that had moved away from Irondale would come back for this event."  Said Jennifer Lashley.   
 

Hickory Grove School near Irondale, Ferlin Husky pictured bottom left 

     Along with notable events, Irondale has also produced notable people.  Irondale was home to aviation pioneer, Tom Benoist (December 29th, 1874 - June 14th, 1917).  Benoist helped make St. Louis a center of American aviation, designed the Benoist XIV aircraft, and also operated the worlds first scheduled airline.  Jessie N. Self is also an admirable name for the community, as he was a school teacher in Irondale until he was called to serve in the Civil War.  Self became Captain of Co. F, 32nd Missouri Infantry.  Self passed away while in the service on February 25th, 1863 due to war related illness.  Letters written by Self can be found in Missouri State Archives.  Lastly, and most well known, is country music artist Ferlin Husky (December 3rd, 1925 - March 17th, 2011).  Husky was from the Irondale area, and attended grade school in  Irondale.  I had the pleasure of meeting Ferlin several years ago, and am pleased to say he was a kind man.  

Irondale Bank, 1901

     Speaking of notable people and events, many don't know of the Irondale Bank robbery that took place in the early 1900's.  On October 26th, 1928, two men, unmasked, entered the Irondale Bank.  The men approached cashier W.H. Jamison, and drew revolvers to his head.  They ordered Jamison to open the vault, and surrender the contents.  Jamison cooperated and then was ordered to open the rear door of the bank, where the two men fled to their automobile with $1,700.  Jamison was unharmed, and the men raced away toward Leadwood.  Though on the loose for a short time, they were later caught as one of the men confessed.  Jamison told the newspapers that the bank faced no real loss thanks to insurance.  

     Blue Haven Cafe, taken by Jennie Moore

     Although Irondale is no longer a mining and railroading boom town, it is still alive in its faithful residents.  One of my favorite stops in Irondale is the Blue Haven Cafe.  The cafe was established in 1946, and is still serving the community today.  Blue Haven Cafe serves several meals, delicious home made desserts, and even has a one of a kind house salad dressing.  Everything I have tried from the Blue Haven Cafe, has been wonderful.  It is a great place to go for a home cooked meal away from home, a burger, or just a light salad.  The prices are very affordable, and the staff makes you feel as if you've known them your whole life.  I was blessed enough to meet the Lashley/Sucharski family at the cafe for lunch to help me with gathering information for this post.  The family are life-long residents and visitors of Irondale, and were such a joy to talk to about life in Irondale.  The cafe and the people in it, are a must see.

     I also must mention Roy's Convenience Store, the one stop shop for gas, groceries, and more.  This little store is reminiscent of an old general store, with a little bit of everything.  There is a never ending flow of customers flowing in and out of Roy's, as it is the only store and gas station for miles.  I really enjoyed popping in!

Irondale Grade School, mid 1900's

     In conclusion, I hope this edition of Small Town Saturday prompts you to pay Irondale a visit sometime.  It is a place of rich history, just waiting to be uncovered.  Irondale never fails to provide smiling faces upon every visit.  Below I have listed the information for the businesses of Irondale.

Blue Haven Cafe-
105 S Oak St, Irondale, MO 63648
573-749-3422
11:00am - 8:00pm Tuesday - Sunday

Irondale City Hall-
110 S Oak St, Irondale, MO 63648
573-749-3223
8:30am - 4:00pm Monday - Thursday

Irondale City Park-
Ash St, Irondale, MO 63648
To donate or participate in fundraisers to help better the city of Irondale's public areas, call the Irondale Park Board at 573-749-3223.

Roy's Convenience Stores-
113 S Oak St, Irondale, MO 63648
573-749-3746
7:00am - 9:00pm daily

The Historical Society of Leadwood, Surrounding Areas and Museum-
501 Bank St, Leadwood, MO 63653
573-701-3951
5:30pm - 7:00pm Tuesdays

     Thank you all very much for reading, and I do hope you enjoyed.  I hope you are eager for this series, and please feel free to recommend any places you would like to see in this or any of my series.  Thank you for making the blog possible!

     A special thanks to the Lashley/Sucharski family, the Blue Haven Cafe, and the Irondale City Board.

With love,
Jennie