Route 66: America's Iconic Highway Turns 100
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Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States (US). The historic road once stretched about 2,400 miles (3,860 km) from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California. Nicknamed the "Mother Road," it became a symbol of American travel and adventure. Now, the iconic highway is turning 100.
History
Route 66 was officially established on November 11, 1926. It connected eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The highway was created by connecting existing local, state, and national roads. Many of these roads were in poor condition. They were gradually improved, and by 1938, the entire route was paved.
The highway became especially important during the Great Depression, which began in 1929. The severe economic crisis left millions of Americans without jobs. To make matters worse, extreme drought and huge dust storms devastated farms across large parts of the central US during the 1930s. This caused many farming families to lose their livelihoods. Thousands of people traveled west toward California, hoping to find employment and a better life. Route 66 became one of the major roads they used.
After World War II, traveling by car became increasingly popular. Roadside diners, motels, gas stations, and unusual attractions became part of the Route 66 experience. The highway came to symbolize freedom and adventure.
Route 66 encounters a changing America
By the middle of the 20th century, however, Route 66 was facing a major challenge. Americans were driving more than ever, and the country needed highways that could handle heavier traffic at higher speeds. In 1956, the US government began building the Interstate Highway System. These new highways were wider, straighter, and designed for faster travel. They gradually replaced or bypassed sections of Route 66. In 1985, Route 66 was officially removed from the US Highway System.
But this did not mean the famous road disappeared. Many sections of the original route still existed. As people recognized the importance of Route 66, communities and preservation groups began working to protect them. They also worked to save historic buildings and landmarks along the route. These efforts helped turn Route 66 from a highway of the past into an important part of American history that people can still experience today.
Centennial celebrations
Celebrations for Route 66’s milestone anniversary have been taking place throughout the year. They will continue through November 11, when the road officially turns 100. Communities across all eight states are hosting festivals, car shows, concerts, and other special events.
On September 3, the Main Street of America Road Show began a tour featuring the documentary Route 66: The Main Street of America. The film will be shown in communities across all eight states along the historic highway. The tour will end with a grand finale in Los Angeles on November 7, 2026.
Route 66 may no longer be an official highway. But its legacy will continue to live on, inspiring generations to explore and seek adventure.
Resources: Wikipedia.org, route66centennial.org, wbur.org, NPS.gov
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20 Comments
gatejesobyjo11 dayscool- revamiryjedi12 daysRoute 66 is a century old now? MAN, I feel old!
iloveaxolotls12 daysThat is so cool. Hooray.
puvozipewavi12 daysthis is cool
ilovehenrydsaf112 dayscool- smartreader12 dayscool
- habukanejupe12 daysi like it
- fopizowykaji12 daysFirst! this is so cool!
- bipyhevylewy12 daysFirst! Really cool
zepanijabihu11 daysSweet
