In 1974, Amarillo millionaire Stanley Marsh 3 commissioned his old chums at the Ant Farm art commune to create a monument to this nation's road travel. Stanley envisioned a sculpture that would invite passers-through to participate in its evolution. He was not disappointed. Over the years, the ten Cadillacs that make up Cadillac Ranch have been bruised and battered into lumpy shells of their former selves.
In June of 2002, the Hampton Inn Save-A-Landmark Program decided the Cadillac Ranch needed a bit of bodywork. Hampton volunteers worked alongside original Ant Farm members to re-tire, scrub, prime and re-paint Amarillo's famous row of classic cars. A plaque describing the history of Cadillac Ranch was unveiled at the site.
"Having lived in Texas for many years, I have always been intrigued by this unusual landmark in Amarillo, which has captured the imagination of Route 66 travelers from everywhere," said Judy Christa-Cathey, vice president, Hampton, at the time of the restoration. "It's a great privilege for us to be working alongside the Ant Farm artists."
"Cadillac Ranch is the hood ornament of Route 66," added Ant Farm co-founder Doug Michels. "We knew that when it was finished, it would be the image heard around the world."
Hampton Inn is a registered trademark of Hilton Hospitality, Inc. Cadillac Ranch © 1974 by Ant Farm (Lord, Marquez, Michels). All rights reserved. Photo courtesy Glen Oldham.