Wigwam Village

A row of concrete wigwams at Wigwam Village No. 2 outside of Cave City. Frank Redford developed the first Wigwam Village on route 31E (now demolished) in 1933-36, inspired by a tepee-shaped lunch stand he had seen in California. He expanded his business with Wigwam Village No. 2 in 1937, which includes 18 concrete “wigwams” (which actually mimic tepees). Redford licensed the Wigwam Village concept to other developers, and opened another village himself in California in 1947. Wigwam Village No. 2, U.S. 31W, Cave City, 1937. A central structure served as the motel office and restaurant, flanked by two smaller teepee restrooms and surrounded by a semicircle of 15 additional tepees which served as the motel rooms. Others were built in Florida, New Orleans, Arizona, and Birmingham. The Arizona and California Villages are the only other Wigwam Villages still standing. Wigwam Village No. 2 remains in business today.

Wigwam Village No. 1, from a Guide to United Motor Courts, 1941.

Last Updated 3/17/2008

Privacy | Security | Disclaimer | Accessibility Statement