SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Two downtown landmarks put Springfield on the Route 66 map and continue to draw visitors today.
Shrine Mosque: A Moorish palace on Route 66
In 1921, Springfield’s Shriners decided to go big. After two years of construction, the city had a massive auditorium with Moorish motif.
“It was built for our home. We’re still using it, and it was also the largest building on Route 66 for years,” said Sam Montgomery, Shrine Mosque historian.
With seating for 2,000 or more and a massive stage, the venue became a cultural hub…