The History of Blue Beacon

About our Founder

Charlie Walker was born on May 27, 1932. He grew up in Salina, KS and was the oldest in a family that moved frequently due to financial circumstances. Charlie dropped out of school after the ninth grade and made his way to Colorado to work in a steel mill. He went on to serve proudly in the United States Air Force.

1960’s

Charlie started two companies that used truck-mounted equipment to provide mobile cleaning solutions. In his travels across North America selling the cleaning equipment, Charlie recognized a need for high quality, professional truck washes and car washes.

1970’s

The first Blue Beacon Truck Wash opened in Salina, Kansas, in 1973. Because Blue Beacon was an instant hit with truck drivers, Charlie immediately added new locations.

1980’s

This was an important decade for Blue Beacon. We grew to more than 45 locations and became the largest truck wash company in the nation.

Today

Today our company is expanding. Our family of employees, including Charlie’s children and grandchildren, strive to continue Charlie’s mission of providing the highest quality washes with exceptional, friendly service.