Leo Williams constructed a one-story brick building where barbecue sandwiches and chili were served to travelers. He added gas pumps and restrooms which made Williams’ Store a one-stop-shop for locals and those on the road. Whether it was sheer luck or foresight on Williams part, this type of business at this location was bound to be prosperous with the establishment of Route 66 happening just a year later (1926).
As more travelers hit the road, business steadily grew. By the 1930s, Williams’ was featured as an official stop on Route 66 maps. Business continued to increase over the next few decades. From clothes, to sandwiches, to canned food, and ice, Leo Williams’ store covered all the basics at affordable pricing.
Thankfully, this location continues to function today. The Eisler family purchased the business in 1973, and their family still operates it. Not much has changed over the decades. The interior remains faithful to its early construction and design. It even features the original tin pressed ceiling. Sandwiches can still be made to order, peach pie sits atop the counter, canned good line the shelves, and cans of cold pop are ready to be cracked. The usual Route 66 memorabilia is available in the gift shop where you may pause to watch a short documentary on the history of the store and the area.
In 2003 the store was listed on the National Register of Historic Places ensuring its preservation. It holds the prestigious title of longest continuously operating store along the Mother Road.
Today the store runs as Nelson’s Old Riverton Store and is operated by Scott Nelson who is the nephew of the Eisler’s. He is also the President of the Route 66 Association of Kansas. The short 13.2 mile stretch of Route 66 which passes through Kansas is so densely packed with sites and history that it deserves to be traveled slowly. Make sure to stop in all three towns while on K-66: Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs. Congratulations to Nelson’s Old Riverton Store on making it past 100!
