Edgar Degas once said, “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” The truth in these words is evident in a small village outside of Carthage, Missouri. Red Oak II is the creation of Lowell Davis, an artist, born in the original Red Oak on Route 66. When he returned to his hometown as an adult, he saw many of the buildings forgotten and left to decay. In 1987, he decided to buy and transport the business and homes from Red Oak about 23 miles away to the farmland he purchased outside of Carthage.
When you visit Red Oak II prepare to be transported back in time when life was a bit simpler…
Davis, pictured here, is the mastermind behind Red Oak II. You will certainly run into him during a visit as he is always working on his favorite project, Red Oak II. He recently celebrated his 80th birthday but doesn’t plan on slowing down yet!
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Located off Route 66, Red Oak II is a popular stop for those traveling the Mother Road. It is also a great place to visit for those who love history, photography, nature, gardening, or art.
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Many of old buildings from the original Red Oak have been restored to their former glory. The bright colors and art instillation only add to the original charm.
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Red Oak II is also available for your wedding or family reunion. There are many places around town that can be rented for a gathering space. This old greenhouse is a great place to gather with friends and even has electricity now!
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This American Flag piece represents all the visitors from across the nation who have stopped to see Red Oak II.
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Fort Hooker is one of the buildings soon to be available for groups and events. Right now though, it’s mainly appreciated by the horses Brisket and Belle.
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Relive the glory days of Route 66.
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The old Phillips 66 Station was originally located on Route 66 in the first Red Oak.
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On Saturdays, locals and visitors get together to play and enjoy old fashioned music at the Salem Country Church. If you’re lucky it may even be pot-luck night!
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You really never know what you may stumble upon at Red Oak II.
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Stop by the adorable and photogenic Red Oak II Cafe and Diner. While you currently can’t grab a meal at the cafe or diner, plans are in the works to open the diner soon!
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Be sure to take in all the art that is scattered across the town. Many of the pieces are recycled metal-work sculptures. This piece is aptly titled, “Plumber’s Nightmare.”
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They even have their own park where you are likely to find ducks, chickens, turkey, and maybe even a peacock.
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Bring your camera or your canvas, because the scenery is too beautiful to not capture.
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Visit the Belle Starr House where Davis still sells his world famous art.
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Red Oak II is truly a piece of history frozen in time. This masterpiece, while gorgeous in photos, can only truly be appreciated in person.
RED OAK II/Facebook Red Oak II can be found at County Loop 122, Kafir Rd., Carthage. The town is always open to visitors, however many of the homes are privately owned so please respect the property.
Have you visited Red Oak II? What was your favorite part about this transported town? Let us know in the comments below!
RED OAK II/Facebook
Red Oak II can be found at County Loop 122, Kafir Rd., Carthage. The town is always open to visitors, however many of the homes are privately owned so please respect the property.
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