The Ozarks Studies Institute, an ongoing initiative of the Missouri State University Libraries, located in the Ozarks Room on the Top Level of Duane G. Meyer Library on the main Springfield campus, is one of several sponsors of the fabulous new “Order Up!” exhibit at the History Museum on the Square. 

The exhibit highlights and celebrates many of the iconic restaurants that existed along the Route 66 corridors (plural because the route through town changed over time) through Springfield and the food, service, and respite they provided to travelers and locals alike. Everything from fine dining (Hotel Sansone, the Colonial Hotel, and the Kentwood Arms) to fast food (Fisher’s Hi-Boy, Steak-and-Shake, and Red’s Giant Hamburg) is covered in this well-researched, visually stunning exhibit. 

The exhibit will be available for public viewing, with paid admission to all the displays at the History Museum, from September 3rd through November 6th. The History Museum is located on the north side of the square, right at the heart of the original Route 66 corridor. This exhibit is just one of many planned by the History Museum building up to the celebrations of the centennial of Route 66 in 2026.