Remembering Connie Echols

The Route 66 Podcast pays a special tribute to Connie Echols, who passed away on May 2, 2026, at the age of 76 years old. The Wagon Wheel Motel is the longest, continuously operated motel along Route 66.

The Route 66 Podcast pays a special tribute to Connie Echols, who passed away on May 2, 2026, at the age of 76 years old.

This episode was originally released in 2018 as Connie was nearing her 10th anniversary of owning and operating The Wagon Wheel Motel.

Join host Anthony Arno as he talks with Connie about:

Website: The Wagon Wheel Motel

Website: Wagon Wheel Facebook Page

Connie Echols, owner Wagon Wheel Motel

Show highlights:

Connie's other profession before purchasing The Wagon Wheel Motel
Early history of The Wagon Wheel Motel
Most popular items sold at The Wagon Wheel Gift Shop
Why the original motel garages were removed from adjoining rooms
The original Wagon Wheel Neon sign and why there's only one sign facing east, and no sign facing travelers as they travel west
Keeping in touch with other historic Route 66 Motels
Latest projects at The Wagon Wheel that Connie is working on
Local area attractions for Cuba, MO
Annual events in the area
Famous guests who stayed at The Wagon Wheel Motel