Johnnie Hastie & The 29 Palms Stage

The Story

Starting in 1938, Johnnie Hastie provided public transportation from the desert to “down below.” His first bus was built from a used 1928 Chevrolet truck with a wooden body, seats for 12 passengers, and a sturdy roof for cargo. The 2021 brochure adds one wonderfully practical detail: during winter, a stove onboard provided heat.

When tires and gasoline were rationed during World War II, Hastie’s service became even more valuable. He filled shopping requests in Banning and hauled everything from ladies’ dresses to restaurant and mining supplies—and even live chickens.