Springfield to Raffle Neon Sign for Route 66
A custom $6,000 neon sign will be awarded to a raffle winner on November 11 to benefit the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway is raffling a custom-designed neon sign to support its mission of preserving and promoting the historic highway. The winner will be drawn on November 11 at a celebration in Springfield.
Why it matters
The funds raised through this raffle are dedicated to supporting the nonprofit mission of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. Proceeds assist in the preservation and promotion of the landmark road throughout the state.
The raffle features 300 tickets available at $50 each to win a custom neon sign valued at $6,000. All proceeds support the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway nonprofit organization.
The players
Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway
This is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the historic Route 66 highway in Illinois.
Ace Sign Co.
Established in 1940, this company specializes in sign design and construction and is partnering to create the custom prize.
The details
Ace Sign Co., which has been in operation since 1940, is designing and fabricating the custom neon sign for the raffle. The raffle winner is responsible for covering all shipping costs for the sign.
Timeline
1860: August Brand begins decorating horse carriages in Springfield.
1940: Ace Sign Co. is established.
Nov. 11, 2026: The raffle winner is drawn during the Route 66 Centennial Celebration.
Market Landscape
This fundraising effort follows the pattern set by the National Historic Preservation Act in utilizing community-led initiatives to protect historically significant sites. The project positions local businesses and nonprofits as key players in maintaining heritage landmarks against modern infrastructure changes.
Residents can participate by purchasing one of the 300 available raffle tickets through the organization's online platform. Buyers should note that the raffle winner is solely responsible for all shipping costs associated with receiving the neon sign prize.
The takeaway
Community-led fundraising plays a vital role in sustaining local history and promoting regional tourism assets like the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. Supporting these small-scale raffles helps ensure that historic landmarks remain preserved and visible for future generations.
What happens next
The raffle winner will be drawn on November 11, 2026, at the Route 66 Centennial Celebration held at Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill, with doors opening for the event at 5:30 p.m.
Further reading
Learn more about local support efforts on the Springfield Philanthropy page.
More information
To purchase a ticket or view details, visit the online route 66 neon sign raffle.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The State Journal-Register.
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Would you buy a raffle ticket to support local historical preservation efforts in your community?
