Dawn Welch, Chickasaw and Owner of the Rock Cafe, describes the cafe's historical importance. Built in 1939, the Rock Cafe is located on historic Route 66 in Stroud, Oklahoma. Over the years, it has met many people and heard many stories because of its "ability to gather souls from across the world." As the country began to boom and Route 66, America's first highway, played host to thousands of travelers, the Rock Cafe was there - in the heart of America, and in the hearts of many.