Vinita, OK
Vinita is the oldest village in Oklahoma and originally was called Downingville. It was renamed for Miss Vinnie Ream, who was a sculptor commissioned to model the sculpture of Abe Lincoln in the US Capitol.
For many years the entrance to Vinita was over a narrow bridge with side walks. The bridge has now been bypassed with a modern bridge, but the old one still is there.
Clanton's Cafe' has a giant EAT neon sign. The restaurant has been owned by the same family since 1927.
Downtown Vinita has some character to it. There are lots of Route 66 era buildings, some still in use and some abandoned. There are plenty of motels and restaurants.
The infamous Ma Barker and her gang are buried in the nearby Williams Cemetery. Of Ma, George, Herman, Doc and Fred, only Herman has a grave marker.
As you get a bit out of town, check out the Western Motel and the HiWay Cafe' ("Small enough to know you but big enough to serve you").
From Vinita, follow US 69/Illinois St - Go left on Wilson and follow it out of town - Go through the S US 69 Junction - Go straight at the Hwy 66 Junction into White Oak
From Wilson St in Downtown Vanita, go right onto US 60/69 onto Illinois St - Cross under I-44 and continue on to Afton
View Route66mc.com - Vinita to Afton in a larger map
