The Wagon Wheel Motel & Restaurant located at the intersection of the 101 Freeway and Highway 1 in Ventura, California is considered to be an authentic surviving example of American roadside architecture from the mid-century. It was the first development by famous Oxnard developer Martin V. “Bud” Smith who hired Hollywood set designer and carpenter Roy Beatty to design and create wrought iron lamps from branding irons and spurs, and furnish the original rooms with rustic wood beds, chairs and lamps. The theme for the property was typical of the then popular cowboy movies, with windows made from wagon wheels, and cowhide chairs in the restaurant. Closed in 2005 and denied landmark status, it awaits demolition.
© Eric Myer Photography
