Route 66 Blue Swallow Motel

In September of 2014, Jen Dragon and I set off with a bunch of motorcycle riders from Chicago to LA on Route 66. It was called The Ride for the Relay, a cancer fundraiser. Not only did we raise lots of money for research, we had a great time exploring the historic Mother Road and called ourselves “the #66chix”!

On Day 6 of the ride, we finally made it to Tucumcari, New Mexico – a long awaited destination as this tiny town was home to some of the best classic roadside motels in the country. And it did not disappoint! Although many of the greats had sadly been shuttered, one establishment was devoted to keeping their legend alive — the Blue Swallow Motel.

When we first approached the office was closed, but there were still lots of great photos to be taken. So I wandered around appreciating all the love that’s gone into keeping the place so nice. That’s when I bumped into a woman cleaning who upon prompting told us she was one of the owners, Nancy (and Kevin) Mueller.

She told us that she and her husband had owned it for about three years, having retired from their jobs in Michigan looking for a new life. From all appearances their decision was a good one – lovely office and gift shop.  I am now the proud owner of a Blue Swallow Motel t-shirt to add to my Route 66 clothing collection.