Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through time with the extraordinary vintage 1980 Phillips Route 66 Illinois Map Coke, Coca-Cola advertising Memorabilia! This isn't just any old map – it's a pristine piece of NOS (New Old Stock) historic Americana that'll transport you straight to the heart of America's golden age of road trips and soda pop culture. Imagine being the very first person to unfold this untouched collectible treasure, feeling the crisp paper beneath your fingers as you reveal a snapshot of 1980s Illinois!
This map is a true gem, measuring a compact 9" x 4" when closed, but unfurling to an impressive 30" x 18" ~ when open. Its excellent condition is a testament to its careful preservation, with barely a crease or fold out of place. Remember those pre-GPS days when these massive maps were our lifelines on the open road? Picture yourself as the navigator, sprawled across the passenger seat with this behemoth of a map, desperately trying to find the next turn while your driver peeks around the edges, praying you don't miss the exit!
The Phillips Petroleum Company's story is as rich and exciting as the map itself. Founded by visionaries Lee Eldas "L.E." Phillips and Frank Phillips in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, the company roared to life on June 13, 1917. Starting with a modest $3 million in assets and just 27 employees, Phillips quickly became a powerhouse in the booming natural gas industry. Their big break came with the discovery of the massive Panhandle gas field in Texas in 1918, followed by the Hugoton Field in Kansas. By 1925, Phillips had skyrocketed to become the nation's top producer of natural gas liquids, revolutionizing the energy landscape.
But the real magic happened when the iconic "Phillips 66" name was born. It's a tale that combines coincidence, performance, and American folklore. The gasoline's specific gravity hovered near 66, a test car blazed down the road at 66 miles per hour, and the fateful test drive took place on none other than the legendary U.S. Route 66. It was kismet, and the naming committee knew it, unanimously christening their product "Phillips 66."
The Phillips 66 legacy truly began on November 19, 1927, when the first service station proudly opened its doors at 805 E. Central Avenue in Wichita, Kansas. From that moment on, the brand became synonymous with American road trips, freedom, and adventure.
Now, you have the chance to own a piece of this incredible history! This vintage map isn't just a collectible; it's a conversation starter, a unique piece of home decor that'll transport your living space back to the glory days of road atlases and gas station memorabilia. As these treasures become increasingly rare, snapped up by museums and private collectors, your opportunity to grab this slice of Americana is fading fast. Don't let this chance slip away – seize the moment and make this extraordinary map yours!
While my photographs strive to capture the essence of this remarkable piece, they can only hint at its true beauty and historical significance. The vibrant colors, the intricate details of Illinois' highways and byways, and the nostalgic Coca-Cola branding are experiences best savored in person. This map isn't just a guide to Illinois; it's a portal to a bygone era of American exploration and optimism. Don't miss your chance to own this incredible piece of Phillips 66 and Coca-Cola history!
