Historic Old Oasis Truck Stop Destroyed by Fire

A piece of history on Route 66 was destroyed by fire on Wednesday. The old Oasis Truck Port and Cafe was consumed by flames that broke out shortly before noon. The first Oasis truck port and cafe was opened in 1958 by Ed Lentz, and was located on the north side of where Interstate 44 runs today, just inside the Laclede County line. The business was easily accessible, and was a local landmark where travelers could fill their tanks and their stomachs. Before Wednesday’s fire you could still see the faded Mobil gas logo on many parts of the building. Before the Missouri 133 overpass was built in the early 1970s, the truck stop was accessible to Route 66 via the old alignment of Missouri 133. To reach it today, you have to exit I-44 on the current Missouri 133 (Exit 145), turn north, then go left on the outer road, Holiday Hills Road. Several area fire departments responded to bring the fire under control. Regional Radio KJEL 103.7 will have more information on Wednesday’s fire at the old Oasis Truck Port and Cafe as it becomes available.