Brownie the Railroad Dog

Victorville, California

CaliforniaRoadside Attraction

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During World War II, Victorville, California’s busy railroad depot had a loyal mascot: Brownie the Railroad Dog.

Brownie, a pit bull–terrier mix named for his chocolate coloring, first showed up at the station in 1943 after being hit by a car. The night telegraph operator nursed him back to health, and from then on, Brownie made the depot his home. He slept under the operator’s desk, greeted workers, and made a habit of “inspecting” the trains that passed through.

Sadly, in 1945 Brownie was struck by a train. The railroad workers who had grown so fond of him pooled their money to give him a proper resting place with a headstone that simply reads:

Brownie
“A Railroad Dog”
A Friend And A Pal
1945

Brownie was originally buried under a tree in Victorville’s Forrest Park, but when the park was removed, his grave marker was carefully relocated. Today you can find it in the parking lot of the California Route 66 Museum, on the right-hand side of the building near the side entrance. A small sign above the stone tells the story of this loyal depot dog, keeping Brownie’s memory alive for travelers passing through.

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Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California

Brownie the Railroad Dog

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Address:

16825 D St, Victorville, CA 92395

Hours:

Visible 24/7

Cost:

Free

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Photos of Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California

Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California
Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California
Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Brownie the Railroad Dog in Victorville, California, here are some things to know before you go.

When can you see this Route 66 attraction?

While the the Brownie the Railroad Dog memorial is outside and always visible, it is located in the parking lot of the California Route 66 Museum. Plan to visit during museum hours to be sure to gain entrance to the grounds.

When is the museum open?

The California Route 66 Museum is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The museum is run by volunteer staff so please be patient if they open a little late or need to shut down early. The museum closes for certain holidays, like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is a small parking lot with spaces around the building. Watch for certain spaces that are reserved for the volunteers working that day. Pull around Sixth street to access the alley that connects to the parking lot.

Where to Stay Near Brownie the Railroad Dog

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near Route 66. Victorville is located about halfway between Barstow and San Bernardino, so plan to spend the night in one of those towns.

Wigwam Motel

The Wigwam Motel franchises were constructed in the 1930s and 40s. Wigwam Village Motel No. 7, the last one ever built, started as a Route 66 destination and still beckons Mother Road travelers today. While the tee-pee-shaped motel went through a transitional period where it was outfitted with waterbeds, rented by the hour, and advertised “Do it in a Wigwam,” these days, it’s been restored to its former glory and is a family-friendly Route 66 attraction.

California Inn

California Inn is a contemporary hotel in Barstow that offers fine service with a variety of amenities. Find an outdoor swimming pool and on-site fitness center, and be sure to stop for a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast before you hit the road.

Route 66 Motel

The Route 66 Motel in Barstow is a retro 1922 motel best recognized for its classic neon sign. The budget motel features simple rooms with free WiFi, satellite TV, microwaves, and mini-fridges. Select rooms even have round beds! Outside look for Instagram worthy photo ops with murals and antique cars.

Enhance your visit to Los Angeles with a tour! Whether you love sightseeing, Hollywood movies, or family-friendly adventures, there are plenty of options for everyone.

Attractions Near Brownie the Railroad Dog on Route 66

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Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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