05/22/2026
Very happy day for us!!!
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=926100643809956&id=100092300856843
Community members, local leaders, and Route 66 supporters gathered in Seligman this month to celebrate the dedication of the town’s new “Welcome to Seligman” monument signs in honor of longtime residents Pat and Lilo Russell.
The dedication ceremony recognized the Russells’ lasting contributions to the town and their commitment to preserving the spirit and history of Seligman along Historic Route 66.
During the ceremony, family members shared that Pat Russell had long envisioned creating a welcoming monument sign for his hometown — a symbol that would let travelers know they had arrived somewhere special, a town rich with history, pride, and community spirit. Alongside him, Lilo Russell has continued supporting and carrying that vision forward through years of dedication to the community.
“What you see here today is more than just a sign,” Nancy Echeverria shared during the dedication. “It’s the result of years of hard work, determination, and people coming together to make something meaningful happen. It’s a symbol of who we are as a town — and a reminder that even small communities can accomplish big things when we work together.”
The project was made possible through the collaboration and generosity of numerous organizations, businesses, and volunteers. Special recognition was given to committee members Brenda Bryant, Mirna Delgadillo, Mauricio Perez, Nikki Terlesky and Nancy Echeverria for their commitment and leadership throughout the project.
A major contribution came from the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, which donated more than $110,000 toward the creation of the monuments. Angel Delgadillo also contributed $20,000 from proceeds generated through his well-known birdhouse project, continuing his lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Route 66.
Additional thanks were extended to Republic Properties for providing the easement location for the west-side monument sign, as well as project partners J2 Design, Northern Arizona Sign Company, Redmond Construction, Dunbar Flagstone, Carved in Stone of Prescott, Chris Kuknyo, Yavapai County Supervisor for District 4 and Sandy Pritchett, who organized volunteers to help clean and prepare the site. Lhoist Chemical Lime Plant was also recognized for its support and longstanding connection to the Seligman community.
The dedication comes during the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Historic Route 66, adding even greater significance to the completion of the long-anticipated project.
The monument signs now stand as a lasting tribute not only to Pat and Lilo Russell, but also to the spirit of Seligman itself — welcoming visitors from around the world while honoring the town’s heritage, resilience, and pride.
