History of Route 66

In the early 20th century, American roadways were disjointed, unpaved, and difficult to navigate. With the rise of the automobile came the need for better quality transportation. That shift occurred in 1926 with the birth of Route 66, one of the first federal highways in the United States. Running from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, it covered a distance of 2,448 miles, and connected rural environments with urban ones, encouraging commerce and travel.

Route 66 gained popularity during The Dust Bowl and The Great Depression, as thousands fled the Great Plains region for opportunities in California. John Steinbeck’s novel “The Grapes of Wrath” (1939) chronicles the difficulties endured by these migrant families along the route.

During WWII, Route 66 became strategically important as a road to move troops, equipment, and supplies through the country. Military convoys were a common sight on 66, as troops traveled to and from deployment and training. Communities along 66 benefited from increased traffic, and businesses, motels, diners, and gas stations thrived as they provided service to military and civilian travelers alike. Following the war, soldiers returned to the United States hungry for America. Car culture and the desire for domestic exploration led to family vacations along 66. Entrepreneurs capitalized on the Route’s popularity by building quirky attractions. Roadside motels, diners, gift shops, and oddities became staples of The Mother Road.

The construction of the Interstate Highway System was authorized by the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. New interstate highways were built with smooth pavement, higher speeds, and direct routes which improved long-distance travel. These highways bypassed many of the small towns and communities which had thrived on Route 66. Slowly, local businesses began to suffer.

The new roads led to a shift in the mindset of travelers. Focused on arriving quickly at their destination, they forsaked local towns and roadside attractions. Soon, sections of 66 were abandoned or removed from the U.S. highway system. A shift away from manufacturing and agriculture further sunk 66 into the past. Segments of the highway eventually fell into disrepair, deterring travelers even more. In 1985, Route 66 was officially decommissioned as a U.S. highway. This marked the end of its status as a federal highway and led to the removal of Route 66 signs along its path.

Despite its decline, Route 66 left an indelible mark in the American mind. Sections of the highway have since been repaired and given the designation “Historic Route 66.” The history and culture surrounding the road are now celebrated, with many travelers from around the world traversing the route in search of the American Dream. American Identity lies in adventure and exploration, and Route 66 is the highway it is found on.