Daisy Sullivan is a professional photographer who adores capturing the beauty of antique items. She enjoys writing about her experiences and sharing tips on how to photograph antiques.
Hello there, fellow explorer! As a seasoned traveler and a passionate writer, I'm thrilled to share with you the captivating history of U.S. Highway Route 66, a road that holds a special place in the heartland of America. This iconic highway, often referred to as the Mother Road or America's Main Street, has a rich history that has influenced the cultural and economic growth of the country.
Unveiling the Birth of U.S. Highway Route 66 🛣️
Our journey begins in the 1920s. The need for a national highway system was pressing, and in response, U.S. Highway Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926, connecting Chicago to Santa Monica. This 2,448-mile long road passed through eight states, namely Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. It was designed to be the nation's first all-weather highway, allowing for year-round travel.
Stepping into the Golden Era of Route 66 🌟
The 1930s to the 1960s marked the golden age of Route 66. During the Great Depression, families migrated west along Route 66 in search of better opportunities, a journey vividly portrayed in John Steinbeck's novel "The Grapes of Wrath". After World War II, the highway became synonymous with the freedom and romance of the open road. Entrepreneurs capitalized on the highway’s popularity, establishing motels, restaurants, and tourist attractions along the route.
Let's take a visual journey along this iconic highway during its golden years.
That was quite a nostalgic journey, wasn't it? Now, let's delve into the decline and eventual decommissioning of Route 66.
Witnessing the Sunset: The Decline and End of Route 66 🌅
However, the construction of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s led to the gradual decline of Route 66. Many sections of the highway were bypassed by modern interstates, causing businesses along the old route to suffer. Eventually, Route 66 was officially decommissioned on June 27, 1985, and removed from the U.S. Highway System.
Reviving the Spirit: The Rebirth of Historic Route 66 Today 🗺️
Today, Route 66 has transformed into a historical route. Many of the original roadside attractions have been preserved or restored, attracting tourists from around the world. While parts of the road have been lost to time, you can still drive on many sections of the historic route, experiencing the nostalgia and charm of a bygone era.
One of the most iconic sights you'll encounter on this historic journey is the classic American diner. One such diner that has stood the test of time is the Route 66 Diner in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
This diner is a perfect example of the nostalgia and charm that Route 66 embodies. Its retro interior, food, and music transport you back in time, making it a must-visit spot for any Route 66 traveler.
For antique enthusiasts like us, Route 66 offers a treasure trove of vintage finds. From unique Route 66 memorabilia to antique cars and furniture, the journey is as much about the destination as it is about the roadside attractions. I recommend checking out my article on Red Barn Antiques for tips on how to discover and photograph these hidden gems.
Route 66 Landmarks and Attractions Quiz
Test your knowledge about the famous landmarks and attractions on Route 66!
Learn more about 🚗 Route 66 Landmarks and Attractions Quiz 🛣️ or discover other Route 66 West quizzes.
So, why is Route 66 famous? It's not just a highway - it's a symbol of America's pioneering spirit, a testament to the country's love for the open road, and a journey through the nation's history. From its humble beginnings to its golden age and eventual decommissioning, the history of Route 66 is truly a captivating tale of progress, decline, and revival.
For antique enthusiasts like us, Route 66 offers a treasure trove of vintage finds. From unique Route 66 memorabilia to
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
by Michael Wallis is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the history and significance of Route 66. This book takes you on a journey through the captivating tale of progress, decline, and revival of America's most iconic highway.
Recommended Products
Our Recommendation Route 66 Podcast
$0.00
Our Recommendation Route 66 Road Trip Journal: Route 66 Log Book For Rv And America Traveller | Keep Track And Review All Details About Your USA Road Trip | Record Roads ... Print 101 pages | Ideas Gift For Family.
$7.14 
Our Recommendation Route 66 Bracelet | Hypoallergenic Stainless Steel Bracelet Bangle of Historic Route 66 Sign Charm on Route 66 Jewelry for Women and Men with Route 66 Charm
$21.97
Our Recommendation Route 66 Postcards: Greetings From The Mother Road
Our Recommendation Roadtrippers Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica (Great American Road Trips) Roadtrippers Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica (Great American Road Trips)
$11.59
Our Recommendation Route 66: The Mother Road 75th Anniversary Edition Route 66: The Mother Road 75th Anniversary Edition
$27.59
Our Recommendation Route 66 Playing Cards
$13.00
Our Recommendation ERLOOD Get Your Kicks Route 66 Metal Retro Wall Plaque Decor Vintage Tin Sign 12 X 8
$7.99
Our Recommendation Route 66: The Mother Road by Michael Wallis (17-May-2008) Paperback Route 66: The Mother Road by Michael Wallis (17-May-2008) Paperback
$44.95
Our Recommendation Miles to Go: An African Family in Search of America along Route 66 Miles to Go: An African Family in Search of America along Route 66
$24.95
Our Recommendation Route 66: Memories from America's Highway Route 66: Memories from America's Highway
$12.00
Our Recommendation Travel Route 66: A Guide to the History, Sights, and Destinations Along the Main Street of America Travel Route 66: A Guide to the History, Sights, and Destinations Along the Main Street of America
$14.49
Our Recommendation Route 66 Travel Guide - 202 Amazing Places: Chicago to Santa Monica Westbound Edition bucket list with Logbook Journal Road Trip USA (Route 66 Travel Guides) Route 66 Travel Guide - 202 Amazing Places: Chicago to Santa Monica Westbound Edition bucket list with Logbook Journal Road Trip USA (Route 66 Travel Guides)
$19.01
Our Recommendation Secret Route 66: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure Secret Route 66: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure
$20.95
Our Recommendation The Route 66 Cookbook: Comfort Food from the Mother Road Deluxe 75th Anniversary Edition The Route 66 Cookbook: Comfort Food from the Mother Road Deluxe 75th Anniversary Edition
$31.77
Our Recommendation 67th Birthday Tee Vintage Legends Born In 1956 67 Years Old T-Shirt
$16.95
Our Recommendation 3dRose Route 66 Two Tone Mug, 11 oz, Black/White,mug_110012_4
$19.63
Our Recommendation SMART BLONDE Vintage Route 66 California Novelty Metal Arrow Sign A-126
$15.11
Our Recommendation Route 66 Vintage Inspired Double-Sided Marquee LED Sign Retro Wall Decor for the Home, Game Room, Bar, Man Cave, Garage, or Bedroom (30" x 9" x 4")
$74.50
Our Recommendation The Route 66 Cookbook: Comfort Food from the Mother Road Deluxe 75th Anniversary Edition by Clark, Marian (2000) Hardcover The Route 66 Cookbook: Comfort Food from the Mother Road Deluxe 75th Anniversary Edition by Clark, Marian (2000) Hardcover
$16.99
Our Recommendation White Mountain Puzzles Route 66 - 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
$19.99
Our Recommendation Greetings from Route 66: The Ultimate Road Trip Back Through Time Along America's Main Street Greetings from Route 66: The Ultimate Road Trip Back Through Time Along America's Main Street
$19.99
Our Recommendation Route 66 Then and Now® Route 66 Then and Now®
$18.36
Our Recommendation Route 66 Signs Vintage Road Signs Room Decor High Way Metal Tin Sign for Home Garage Wall Decorations 12× 12 Inches
$9.92
Our Recommendation Historic U.S.A. Route 66 Highway Vintage America Road Sign Premium T-Shirt
$19.99
Our Recommendation Route 66 Still Kicks: Driving America's Main Street Route 66 Still Kicks: Driving America's Main Street
$16.95
Our Recommendation The Best Hits on Route 66: 100 Essential Stops on the Mother Road The Best Hits on Route 66: 100 Essential Stops on the Mother Road
$24.49
Our Recommendation Route 66 in Oklahoma (Images of America) Route 66 in Oklahoma (Images of America)
$23.99
People also asked
Route 66 West Articles
All Rights Reserved © 2024