The historic 1939 Texaco gas station in Galena, Kansas had seen better days. That is, until an army veteran got involved. The now restored Texaco station has a refreshed appearance and bright neon and is home to Gearhead Curios and a nod to Cars.
Army and Coast Guard veteran Aaron Perry, of Wakarusa, Kansas bought and began to restore the old Texaco station in 2018. A road trip enthusiast himself, Perry wanted to own a piece of Route 66 in his retirement. He found the property while passing through town, saw the For Sale sign, and closed on the it soon after.
He has since restored the native stone, fixed the leaky roof, gave it a fresh coat of paint, and did other necessary repairs. A new neon light display has been added along with a 1951 Hudson Hornet, painted blue to resemble ‘Doc Hudson’ from the move Cars and pay Homage to another famous Kansas Route 66 attraction down the street: Cars on the Route.
At the Galena Texaco station Perry opperates Gearhead Curios as a place to sell artwork he makes out of car parts alongside Route 66 souvenirs.
While traveling Route 66 in Galena, Kansas, also look for the Dueling Pepsi and Coca-Cola Murals, Frecs the Miner, and the Greetings from Galena mural.
Gearhead Curios: Restored Texaco Station
Address: 520 S Main St, Galena, KS 66739
Cost: Free to See
Hours: Always visible, business hours vary
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