Campbell's "66" Express trucking which was frequently seen on old Route 66. Campbell’s “66” Express was known throughout the Midwest for its mascot – a camel named Snortin’ Norton – and its slogan – “Humpin’ to Please.”
Campbell’s “66” Express, Inc. was founded by Franklin George Campbell in Springfield, Missouri, in 1926. The company was initially named Campbell Fuel and Transfer but transitioned to trucking in 1933 when a banker asked Campbell if he would take over Rapid “66” Express, an ailing trucking company in the area. Rapid “66” Express operated from Springfield to St. Louis, Missouri along Route 66. Campbell agreed, and Campbell’s “66” Express was formed. Campbell’s “66” Express could not survive the deregulated environment, and in 1986, the company declared bankruptcy. At the time of its bankruptcy, Campbell’s “66” Express had 42 terminals in 13 states and employed roughly 1,300 people.
The photos and postcard are courtesy of 66postcards.
