Detoured to Farmington

Monday, August 16, 2021

Detoured to Farmington

Passing through a few small towns across Missouri en route to Johnson's Shut-Ins.

Standing out against the mostly clear blue skies the eight ball on top of a water tower in Tipton would prove to be an omen of things to come. At first, in front of the eight ball and once past, the expedition pushed on decidedly behind the eight ball.

A variety of small towns dotted the landscape along the way. Wanting to make it to the final destination in time to establish camp and reconnoiter the area, most did not warrant more than a passing high-speed glance. Just the other side of Jefferson City a church perched high upon a bluff demanded a bit of attention though. The historic St. Joseph church, constructed in 1848, proved inaccessible to the lens. A view through the small homes in quaint little town of Westphalia is all that could be managed.

Fifteen minutes down the road, another massive Catholic church stood out as much more attainable. Although not quite as old, and the town not quite as quaint at first glance, the two bell tower all brick Holy Family Church in Freeburg still stands solid, serving the same community it has for the past 100 years.

Nothing much else captured attention until getting through the mess of Rolla and venturing into Salem. A little filling station from by-gone days presented itself made over for the more modern era, apparently providing a home for locals.

Arriving at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, ready to setup camp for the night, disappointment set in fast. A lack of vacancy at the campground forced a change in itinerary. A quick glance around the area on the internet found a small crossroads hotel 45 minutes to the east in Farmington. It was not ideal, but would have to do. On the way, a stop at the Johnson Shut-Ins visitor center confirmed thoughts that occurred too late. The week before school began in Missouri, two hours from St. Louis, ensured campgrounds were full to capacity.

Checking in to the hotel, dumping the baggage, the mission turned toward sustenance. The concierge pointed toward a location that proved to be closed on Monday, as was most of the town. Fast food options abounded, as well as the typical menu of "fried everything." Touring around a bit and inquiring with Google located "12 West" as the only place available to obtain decent sustenance. It proved well worth the effort.

Watching the sun set from the front lawn of a hotel, with the buzz of nearby highway traffic had not been in the plan at all. The sound of birds, crickets, and other wildlife occasionally drifted in between the rush of civilization hurrying to its demise. Mostly, the constant rush and hum of traffic filled the air.

They hotel did host two swimming pools though. They had an outdoor pool, which proved satisfying after a hot day on the road. A few other patrons joined the festivities, but became a little rambunctious, urging a retreat from the area. The indoor pool was found in similar state. Rest for the night, looking forward to an early morning outing in the forest, seemed the most logical choice.