William N. Banton Tool Shop

Tool Shoppe [SIDE] KingThiq (Atlas Obscura User)

Now a feature of the Chas H. Reynolds Rest Area, the once-thriving tool shop was a main feature of Ladd Creek Canyon, providing a rest area for weary travelers and supplies for craftsmen.

The historical building and water-wheel still stand, and were originally constructed in 1911. Banton once used the water-driven shop to create tools for his livestock ranch. During the harsh winter months, the water wheel is kept inside the cabin.

Alongside is a monument, with an inscription that reads, “The water-driven tool shop in Ladd Creek Canyon, visible from the highway near this point, was built in 1911 and operated by William N. Banton, prominent Union County rancher whose holdings once encompassed the safety rest area. Banton settled the land in 1868 as a youngster with his parents, Edwin D. and Mary J. Grubbe Banton, pioneers from Missouri. He raised livestock and improved the property until his retirement in 1940.”

Know Before You Go

Pierce Road runs behind the building, the easiest way to access is by pulling into the rest stop. The rest stop is labeled as either “Charles Reynolds” or “Chas H. Reynolds” depending on which GPS system you are using. The monument for the rest stop is labeled as “Chas H. Reynolds”