My wife and I enjoy driving the back roads and trails of Arizona, searching for interesting things to see and places to eat. Our Jeep is currently enabling us to comb the desert in comfort, not having to breathe dust like the open-cab ATV, which is a big plus. Desert dust is bad for the lungs, with desert fever a possibility.
Arizona is a great place for tooling around the country, but I like investigating Kansas just as much. The small towns there are full of old buildings to snap pictures of, with the people generally polite and nice. Heeding “No Trespassing” warnings while on their turf keeps them happy.
Some of the best places to eat are the mom-and-pop diners. Alta Vista has a good one, as does Simpson. Trapper House restaurant in Simpson serves the best ribeye steak I’ve ever had, next to the ones my friend, Tom Doupe, grills. The building is nostalgic, which adds to the ambiance. A restaurant in Longford tops them all in my book.
Nestled in the heart of Longford, the Coachlight Restaurant has served as a beloved dining destination and a social hub for both locals and travelers. Over the years, it has become more than just a place to eat; it stands as a testament to small-town hospitality, tradition, and community spirit.
The Coachlight Restaurant was established in 1976, during a period of growth and optimism in rural Kansas. The governor was there during the opening. Its founders sought to create a welcoming environment where families and friends could gather for hearty home-cooked meals.
The restaurant’s name, “Coachlight,” evoked an era of horse-drawn coaches and the warm glow of lanterns, reflecting its commitment to traditional values and comfort.
From its inception, the Coachlight became a gathering place for Longford residents and others. It hosted countless celebrations—birthdays, anniversaries, and community meetings. The restaurant’s staff, often local residents themselves, fostered close relationships with regular customers, further cementing its role as a community anchor.
The Coachlight Restaurant is renowned for its classic American fare, including fried chicken, homemade pies, and generous breakfast platters. Recipes were often passed down through generations, and the menu reflected the agricultural heritage of the region.
Seasonal specials and local ingredients ensured that the offerings remained fresh and relevant. People also come there from throughout the world, as I can attest to. I thumbed through their guestlist one evening and saw several from Canada.
Like many rural establishments, the Coachlight faced challenges over the decades, including economic downturns and changes in dining trends. However, through adaptability and the steadfast support of the Longford community, the restaurant continued to thrive. Renovations and updates to the dining area were made while preserving the charm and character that patrons cherished.
Today, the Coachlight Restaurant is remembered as a symbol of Longford’s heritage and resilience. For many, it evokes fond memories of family gatherings and friendly conversations. Even as times change, the spirit of the Coachlight lives on in the collective memory of Longford and continues to inspire pride in the community.
The history of the Coachlight Restaurant is intertwined with the story of Longford itself—a chronicle of tradition, perseverance, and the enduring power of shared meals. Whether through its inviting atmosphere or its home-style cuisine, the Coachlight has left a lasting impression on all who have passed through its doors.
The year 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of its opening. Our plans are to help them celebrate, while also celebrating my brother-in-law’s long-awaited retirement. I believe Calvin’s been with the United States Post Office for over 40 years. Hopefully, we can make a month of it.
While plans for next summer are currently being put on the calendar, we’ve still got lots of places to see and things to do this year in Arizona, with Skinny Al’s on our current list of places to eat, along with Roadkill Café. Of course, we pray daily that our health allows us to keep motoring along, as well as the same for our family and friends.
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