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There is a drug store in Cross Plains, Tennessee, that is often described
as a step back in time. This car dealer on the edge of town seems to be
angling for a little of that reputation.
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This is the "step back in time" drug store. Though the workings
of its pharmacy are thoroughly modern, Thomas Drugs has the appearance and welcoming feel of
long ago. On my only previous visited, there had been quite a lunch crowd
and I jumped to the conclusion that breakfast would be available, too.
Officially, it was not. There was no menu but a bacon and egg sandwich
could be had if desired. The explanation for not going after the breakfast
business was simple and sensible. This is no fast paced metropolis.
"We don't open until 8:00," I was told, "so we've already
missed the breakfast crowd." That sandwich
was really good.
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I picked up US-31W at Bowling Green, Kentucky, so I could drive by the
devastated Horseshoe Camp Motel. Aside from the icicles melting, it seems
nothing has changed since
my last visit in
November.
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I was already past Park City when it struck me that I had not been by
Bell's Tavern in some time. I turned around and drove back through town
looking for the Historic Bell's Tavern sign. I didn't see it but didn't
worry about it much. Once I realized I had missed it, I just took the next
left. That was KY-255 which led to Old Dixie Highway which led back to the
tavern. As I walked around the ruins, I heard a shout from across the
railroad track. A car was pulled over and the driver wanted to know how to
get to where I was. I pointed northeast toward Park City proper but he
replied that that was blocked. So I described how I'd gotten there and in
a few minutes he pulled up behind my car.
The fellow's name was Lou Daniels and he had been raised in Park City. He
and his wife were visiting from, I think, Illinois. The tavern ruins had
been more or less a playground for him and others and he talked of
climbing all over the stone walls when he was twelve or so. I don't know
exactly when that was but think the 1950s is a good guess. Pretty scary to
think about kids climbing those walls now.
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So I probably didn't miss the sign. It was likely removed when the in town
railroad crossing was blocked. I just followed Old Dixie Highway east to
where it joins US-31W.
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And another trip ends with the welcome home view of Cincinnati. Just one
more river and one more state line to cross.
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