Galena, Kansas, is associated with the restored Kan-O-Tex service station on historic U.S. Route 66.
The Kan-O-Tex station became known as Cars on the Route after restoration by Route 66 preservationists. Its tow truck, named Tow Tater, is widely associated with the character Mater from Pixar’s Cars, although the film character is fictional and the station predates the movie.
Galena is in the short Kansas segment of Route 66, which runs through the southeastern corner of the state. The town is also connected with the road’s mining and transportation history. Nearby Baxter Springs has its own notable Route 66 sites, so the two towns are sometimes mixed up when visitors discuss Kansas attractions.