The Story Behind Seligman's Welcome Signs

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Today, visitors arriving in Seligman are greeted by Welcome Signs standing proudly at both the east and west entrances to town. These signs serve as a symbol of community pride, Route 66 heritage, and the welcoming spirit that has defined Seligman for generations.  At the west entrance, a dedication monument honors the memory of Patrick "Pat" Russell and Lieselotte "Lilo" Russell, whose love for Seligman helped inspire this project. The monument was dedicated on April 30, 2026, during the Centennial Celebration of Historic Route 66.

Lilo Russell's journey began in Germany, where she was born Lieselotte Hohmann on April 10, 1941. In 1961, she married Patrick James Russell, a young Arizona soldier serving in the United States Army. Pat was born on November 6, 1939, in Wickenburg, Arizona, and had settled in Seligman with his family in 1952.

While stationed in Germany, Pat met Lilo, and the two were married on April 20, 1961. A year later, they returned to Seligman to build their life together and raise their family.

Over the decades, Pat and Lilo became deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Together they raised their three children—Nancy, Brenda, and Patrick Jr.—instilling the values of hard work, service, family, and perseverance.

Pat spent his life serving both his family and his community. He operated the local Texaco station, worked for the Diamond A Cattle Company, and later retired from Chemical Lime Company after sixteen years of service. Family was always his highest priority. He proudly served eleven years on the Seligman School Board, ensuring he could personally present each of his children with their high school diplomas. Known for his generosity, humor, and willingness to help anyone in need, Pat became one of Seligman's most respected and beloved citizens.

Lilo's legacy was built on hospitality. Beginning in 1973, she worked at the Copper Cart on Route 66, where visitors quickly learned that her warm smile and welcoming personality made everyone feel at home.

In 1996, Lilo's lifelong dream became a reality when she and her daughters, Nancy and Brenda, opened Westside Lilo's Cafe. Pat soon became an essential part of the restaurant as well, serving as the dependable jack-of-all-trades behind the scenes and a friendly ambassador at the front counter.

For nearly three decades, Westside Lilo's Cafe has reflected the very spirit of its founders. Travelers from around the world have enjoyed Lilo's recipes, homemade desserts, and genuine hospitality. Pat became known for sharing local history, speaking German with international visitors, offering candy to children, and proudly telling stories about his family and beloved hometown.

Together, Pat and Lilo created more than a restaurant—they created a gathering place where locals, Route 66 travelers, and new friends could feel like family.  Today, their daughter Brenda continues that tradition, carrying forward her parents' commitment to quality food, warm hospitality, and community connection.

The Welcome Signs that now stand at both entrances to town began with a simple idea from Pat Russell.

Pat believed that Seligman deserved a grand welcome worthy of its rich history and international reputation as the Birthplace of Historic Route 66. Inspired by the entrance signs in neighboring communities, he envisioned welcoming visitors with a landmark that reflected the pride and character of Seligman.

He shared that dream with his daughter Nancy and encouraged her to make it happen.

Determined to fulfill her father's vision, Nancy joined forces with local committee members Brenda Russell, Mirna Delgadillo, and Mauricio Perez. Together, they organized fundraising efforts and secured generous support from community members, GoFundMe donors, Angel Delgadillo's Bird House Sales, and the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona.

Through their dedication and the generosity of countless supporters, Pat's dream became reality in 2026, the Centennial Year of Historic Route 66. Welcome Signs were installed at both the east and west entrances to Seligman, creating a lasting tribute to the town they loved.

Although Pat and Lilo did not live to see the signs completed, their spirit lives on through them. The signs stand as a reminder of their commitment to community, their love of Route 66, and their belief that every visitor should feel welcomed the moment they arrive.

As you enter Seligman, may you be greeted in the spirit of Pat and Lilo Russell:

With hard work.

With kindness.

With laughter.

With open arms.

And with a heartfelt welcome to the town they loved so dearly.

Welcome to Seligman.