TRUCKING DOWN 66
Cassens Transport and Hamel
Commercial trucking boomed on the new hard roads in the 1920s and 30s. Trucking companies, truck stops, service garages, and a “Brotherhood of Teamsters” created a national road culture. Based originally in Hamel, Cassens Transport has hauled new automobiles to regional dealerships since 1931.
Tourist Haven Restaurant
George Cassens (third from left) opened the Tourist Haven Tourist Haven Restaurant next to his terminal in 1937 to serve Route 66 travelers and Cassens drivers. His wife, Louise, managed it. It has since been sold and operated under several names, which are displayed on the interior walls of this classic Route 66 roadhouse.
It Began with Four Cars
Cassens Transport began in 1931 when Albert and Arnold Cassens hauled four new cars from Detroit to their father George’s dealership in Hamel. By 1941, Cassens had a fleet of 35 car transporters operating from its terminal next to the Tourist Haven Restaurant.
