Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection – Ballwin Edition
Crafted from ultra-soft 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, this unisex jersey tee offers premium comfort with a tribute to Route 66's historic roots. Featuring the proud slogan "The James Ball Homestead," this tee celebrates Ballwin, Missouri, a town founded in 1837 by John Ball on land granted to his father James Ball.
Perfect for travelers exploring the Mother Road's early alignment or for curators of our exclusive Route 66 Everytown Collection, this tee is a must-have for history enthusiasts and Americana lovers.
Celebrate Ballwin: a thriving St. Louis suburb along Route 66's original 1926-1932 alignment, where John Ball's homestead marked the beginning of a vibrant community. Ballwin's rich history and modern charm make it a standout stop on the Mother Road.
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About Ballwin, Missouri: From Frontier Roots to the Mother Road
Ballwin located in western St. Louis County, holds the distinction of being the only city in the United States with its unique spelling - Ballwin, not Baldwin. The town traces its origins back to 1836-1837, when John Ball laid out the community on land granted to his father, James Ball. Its very existence is tied to Manchester Road, a well-traveled route constructed in 1826 that connected St. Louis to Jefferson City and passed directly by Ball's property. Without this roadway, Ballwin may have never come to be. But the road did arrive, and with it came opportunity, commerce and a new town with a distinctive name. The deep connection to roads, trade and transportation set the stage for Ballwin's later role as a waypoint on the original 1926-1932 alignment of the Mother Road.
Though Route 66 only passed through Ballwin for a short stretch of its history (six years), the town's legacy as a stop on the highway remains significant. Early travelers would have encountered small businesses and roadside services that reflected the community's long standing spirit of hospitality. While the original Tourist Court-style accommodations and gas stations have long since disappeared, the story of Ballwin's link to the Mother Road lives on in its heritage.
Today, Ballwin is a thriving suburb that balances its historic past with a vibrant modern identity. Visitors can explore local history connected to the Ball family's homestead while also enjoying the conveniences of a growing community. Its location on Manchester Road (MO-100), which once was part of Route 66, ensures that the town remains tied to the legend of the Main Street of America. Annual regional celebrations, such as the Route 66 St. Louis Festival, further connect Ballwin to the living legacy of the highway.
Product Features:
- 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton for premium softness
- Side seams for added structure and durability
- Tear-away label for comfort
- Classic crew neckline with a flattering unisex fit - true-to-size for all day comfort (see size chart for details)
- Fulfilled in the USA
Care Instructions:
- Machine wash: cold (max 90°F / 30°C)
- Tumble dry: low heat
- Non-chlorine bleach as needed
- Iron or steam: medium heat
- Do not dry clean
