If you’ve traveled along I-40 on old Route 66 in Joseph City, Arizona, chances are you’ve seen the bright yellow “Here It Is” sign, with red letters and the silhouette of a rabbit reminding you that you’ve come to the famous Jack Rabbit Trading Post, which opened in 1949.
But according to multiple reports, the sign that has stood on Old Route 66 for 77 years was destroyed by a dangerous, violent monsoon storm last week.
according to 12 newsLast week’s storm was so big that “it pulled it out of the ground, threw it on the ground, and in some places drove it up onto the pillars standing there.”
Cindy Jacquez’s family has owned the famous trading post for 65 years. His father and grandfather have put in their blood, sweat and tears to keep this iconic sign in good condition. The family is in the process of healing the scars with the help of a GoFundMe campaignWhich has raised more than $23,000 so far.
Courtesy of GoFundMe
The campaign states, “The money raised will go directly into restoring the ‘Here It Is’ sign, ensuring it will continue to stand as a guide for travelers and locals alike.” “My parents have always reached out to help others, whether it was through generous donations, supporting local businesses, or giving of their time and money to the community. Their commitment to preserving this piece of history is matched by their dedication to giving back to those around them.”
The sign’s damage comes nearly three months after the collapse of the historic Route 66 diner was captured on video.
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Lindy’s Diner in southwest Albuquerque, New Mexico was issued a red tag by city officials on April 20 due to its “unsafe structure.” Just over a week later, a video captured the moment the wall on the eastern side of the historic eatery collapsed.
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Route 66, which begins in Chicago, Illinois and ends in Santa Monica, California, is celebrating its centennial on America’s 250th birthday.
