The Complete Story
When Bloomington contractor William W. Sprague built his 'Sprague Super Service Station' in 1931, he created something unique: a gas station that looked like an English manor house. This Tudor-Revival style brick building featured half-timbering, steep gables, and the owner's apartment on the second floor - plus a separate room for the gas station employee. It was designed to attract Route 66 travelers with its welcoming, residential appearance.
Originally a Cities Service vendor, Sprague's sold various fuel brands including Gulf Oil during the 1960s. The last fuel was dispensed in 1971, and the pumps were removed by 1979. The building then served various businesses including Joe's Welding and Boiler Company, Corn Belt Manufacturing, Yellow Cab, Avis Rent-a-Car, Hodge's Catering, and Bridal World before standing vacant.
Illinois State University instructor and Route 66 author Terri Ryburn purchased the station in October 2006 for $220,000 and began restoration. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, inducted into the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame in 2009, and designated a local historic landmark in 2011. Ryburn sold the station to the Town of Normal in 2016. After additional renovations, it reopened on August 12, 2017, as 'Ryburn Place' - a visitor center and gift shop.
Surprising Facts You Didn't Know
→ The only Tudor Revival canopy gas station in Illinois
→ The largest of only three remaining two-story service station buildings on all of Route 66
→ The owner's apartment was on the second floor above the gas pumps
→ Sold fuel for 40 years (1931-1971) under Cities Service and Gulf Oil brands
→ Purchased for $220,000 in 2006 by a Route 66 author who began restoration
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Sprague's Super Service
✓ You Can Visit Today
Address: 305 Pine St, Normal, IL 61761
What's There Now: Operates as 'Ryburn Place' visitor center and gift shop featuring local art. Town of Normal ownership since 2016.
GPS Coordinates: 40.5174733, -88.9806791
Photo Tip: Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon when the Illinois light brings out the building's character.
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