If you find yourself in need of a car wash in the Coachella Valley, head to the Elephant Car Wash in Rancho Mirage, CA - cleaning cars since 1966!
A SIGN BATHING IN HISTORY
In 1951, Archie, Dean, & Eldon Anderson opened the first automated, hands-free car wash in Seattle, Washington. The company made its way to Coachella Valley in 1966 when Marilyn Annette, daughter of Eldon Anderson, and her hubby Richard, built and operated their own Elephant Car Wash. It was later sold and renamed Rancho Car Wash, but it appears that its name was and will always be @elephantcarwash (Check out their IG page for some fun photos)
THE OG ELEPHANT
The original Seattle sign has served as an iconic landmark to the city for over half a century. It’s been featured in movies, music videos, and allegedly even visited by the king himself, Elvis Presley. Sadly, the business closed in 2020 and the sign was taken down to be restored and relocated to Seattle’s Museum of History and Industry.
Luckily, a small piece of history still remains in the desert, but you'll have to be willing to brave the heat to see it.
Treat your car to a nice wash here!
Address:
71490 CA-111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270