The Complete Story
The Illinois Route 66 Mining Museum tells the often-overlooked story of how the coal industry shaped the development of Route 66 communities. Coal mining was the lifeblood of several small towns along the route, and this fascinating museum chronicles the boom-bust cycle that these communities experienced after coal was discovered in the area in 1864.
Founded in 2008 by the Godley Red Carpet Corridor Committee (GR3C), the museum project officially came to life on January 24, 2011, when the Godley Village Board voted to proceed. The name was changed to Illinois Route 66 Mining Museum on February 20, 2011. The museum is housed in the historic City Hall building in Godley.
Beside the museum building stands a striking steel sheet silhouette depicting a coal miner and his donkey. A wayside exhibit tells the story of 'Mining Black Diamonds' and the economic cycles that shaped the region. The museum also features fossil finds from the slag heaps in the area, adding a geological dimension to the industrial history.
Surprising Facts You Didn't Know
→ Coal was discovered in the Godley area in 1864, predating Route 66 by over 60 years
→ The museum features fossils found in the slag heaps left behind by mining operations
→ Godley is named after Francis Godley, an English coal mine operator who founded the town in 1865
→ The steel silhouette of a coal miner and donkey outside the museum is a local landmark for Route 66 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Illinois Route 66 Mining Museum
✓ You Can Visit Today
Address: undefined, Godley, IL 60407
What's There Now: Active museum in the historic Godley Village Hall, open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am-12pm. Features mining artifacts, fossil displays, and Route 66 memorabilia.
GPS Coordinates: 41.2371343, -88.245038
Photo Tip: Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon when the Illinois light brings out the building's character.
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