The Rockwood Motor Court in Springfield, Missouri, has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The announcement recognizes the motor court’s historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance as one of more than 300 historic hotels across the United States.
Built in 1929, the Rockwood Motor Court is a prime example of early Route 66 tourist-court style, with cottages arranged around a central courtyard. In 1948, the wood lap siding was covered with giraffe-style masonry and sandstone façade, and the name changed to Rockwood Motor Court. Today, it is recognized as the oldest operating motel on Route 66. An extensive restoration in 2019 by owners Phyllis Ferguson and Tim Phillips ensured authentic Route 66 lodging for modern travelers.
“Historic Hotels of America is delighted to induct Rockwood Motor Court, a Route 66 rock masonry court built in 1929,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “We commend Rockwood Motor Court, Phyllis Ferguson and her husband Tim Phillips, along with their leadership team for the careful historic preservation work, stewardship and vision that will allow future generations of travelers to experience this unique historic destination.”
To qualify for membership, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, be designated as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, and have historic significance. The induction also celebrates the upcoming centennial of Route 66 in 2026. Often called the “Mother Road” by John Steinbeck, Route 66 symbolizes the rise of the automobile and American freedom, but many of its historic sites are disappearing. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has worked to revitalize the route through grants and advocacy.
“The National Trust for Historic Preservation is leading the movement to save places where our history happened,” the organization stated. The Rockwood Motor Court’s inclusion underscores its cultural importance as a surviving landmark of the road trip era. For more information, visit Historic Hotels of America or the Rockwood Motor Court website.
