Waynesville, Mo. – As the nation marked the 100‑year anniversary of the creation of Route 66, a modest downtown service station reminded travelers that the Mother Road still offers the personal touch of a bygone era. The Downtown Service Station, a full‑service stop that has been serving motorists since 1972, is now owned and operated by the Sharadin family, who purchased the business in 2021.

Full‑service in a fast‑forward world

Unlike modern self‑serve pumps, attendants at the station still fill customers’ tanks, wash windows, check oil levels and perform other chores while drivers remain seated in their cars. “We have some people who stop in here specifically because we’re a full‑service and a Route 66 attraction,” said Mark Sharadin, the station’s owner. That hands‑on service, he explained, is part of the station’s appeal to tourists seeking an authentic Route 66 experience.

Since taking over, the Sharadin family – originally from Upstate New York – has added a collection of Route 66 signs and memorabilia to the property, turning the site into a small museum of the highway’s history. “We travel 66 between here and St. Louis and Springfield, stop at all the antique places and look for 66 antiques that fit into the shop,” Mark added.

A family‑run landmark draws global visitors

Mark’s son, William Sharadin, said the station now welcomes travelers from across the globe. “You get to meet everyone from across the world who comes here, and they’re excited about being here because they get more excited about Route 66 than most we do,” he said. The family’s hospitality, combined with the station’s historic charm, has made it a waypoint for road‑trippers, classic‑car enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Local officials and tourism promoters have highlighted the station as a living reminder of the vital role service stations played in the survival and success of Route 66. During the centennial celebrations, civic and state leaders praised the station’s dedication to preserving the highway’s legacy while providing a practical service for today’s drivers.

Preserving a piece of American heritage

The Downtown Service Station stands out as one of the last operating full‑service stations along Route 66’s 2,400‑mile stretch. Its continued operation underscores the importance of small, family‑owned businesses in maintaining the cultural fabric of communities like Waynesville.

For travelers heading west from St. Louis or east toward Springfield, a stop at the Sharadin family’s station offers more than fuel – it offers a tangible connection to the spirit of the Mother Road, a reminder that hospitality and personal service still have a place on America’s highways.

Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.