Get Your Kicks with Reid Newspapers on Route 66!
The Mother Road is turning 100 in 2026, and Reid Newspapers is hitting the gas to celebrate America’s most
legendary highway.
With more community newspapers along Route 66 than anyone else in the nation, we’re pulling together stories, snapshots, and memories that showcase why this “Main Street of America” still has a grip on the nation’s heart.
From its birth in the roaring 1920s to its rise as the ultimate cross-country adventure, Route 66 has carried generations of dreamers, travelers, and road-trippers. Along the way came the neon lights, mom-and-pop diners, quirky roadside attractions, and the unforgettable characters who
gave the road its charm.
As we cruise toward the Centennial, Reid Newspapers is proud to help keep the Route 66 spirit alive. Through our pages, readers will discover the history, the people, and the magic that made the highway a cultural icon.
So buckle up, roll down the windows, and ride shotgun with us as we take the ultimate road trip through 100 years of Route 66. We promise—you’ll get your kicks!
From Chicago to LA — The humble beginnings of Route 66
Sarah Cook
Reid Newspapers Digital Media Director
In 2026, Route 66 will be hitting the big 1-0-0! That’s right—the legendary highway is turning 100 years old, and it’s time to celebrate a century of road trip magic and iconic history. Back in the summer of 1926, the Bureau of Public Roads rolled out the country's very first highway system, and Route 66 was at the heart of it. But this wasn’t just another stretch of asphalt. Route 66 quickly became a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the great American road trip. Known by many names—the "Mother Road," "Old 66," and the "Main Street of America"—Route 66 stands out as one of the oldest and most famous highways in the United States. Winding its way from Chicago to Los Angeles, this nonlinear highway connected the heartland to the West Coast, paving the way for countless adventures. Why did Route 66 come to life in the first place? In the mid-1920s, cars were taking over as the preferred way to travel and move goods. Trains were still chugging along, but automobiles offered a quicker, more flexible option. Route 66 was designed to link small, rural Midwest communities to bustling cities and major distribution hubs like Chicago. Farmers used it to transport their produce and grain, turning the highway into a lifeline for the agricultural industry. By the 1930s, Route 66 was giving the railroads a run for their money, becoming a cornerstone of the trucking industry as it boomed. It wasn’t just a road; it was an economic powerhouse. Oklahoma, in particular, has deep ties to the history of Route 66. The state boasts the longest drivable stretch of the highway, and it’s home to towns like Miami and Weatherford, where the road runs right through the main streets. And we can’t talk about Route 66 without mentioning Cyrus Avery. This Tulsa native and Oklahoma’s first Highway Commissioner played a massive role in creating the U.S. Highway System. Dubbed the “Father of the Mother Road,” Avery not only helped select the iconic double sixes for the highway’s name but also pushed for its paving in the 1930s. To honor this milestone, Reid Newspapers, the largest collection of community newspapers along Route 66, is joining forces to bring readers an unforgettable journey through the highway’s storied past. Reid Newspapers is proud to be part of this legacy, sharing tales of Route 66’s construction, its role in shaping America, and the colorful characters who brought it to life.
Route 66: from post-war glory to decommissioning
Sarah Cook
Reid Newspapers Digital Media Director
The end of World War II sparked an exciting new chapter for Route 66, transforming it from a wartime lifeline into a symbol of freedom and adventure. Before the war, and even during its darkest days, Route 66 served as a vital artery for troop mobilization, military supplies, and civilian goods, with the Midwest's agricultural bounty flowing along its path. But when peace returned in 1945, so did the spirit of exploration. Americans took to the open road like never before, using Route 66 for leisurely road trips and unforgettable family vacations. By the 1950s, the journey along Route 66 often became the highlight of the trip, outshining even the destinations themselves. This golden age of travel brought a boom of diners, roadside lodges, motor courts, trading posts, and full-service gas stations, turning the highway into a vibrant ecosystem of American culture and hospitality. Route 66 wasn’t just a road—it was a destination in its own right. However, the mid-1950s marked the beginning of the Mother Road's decline. On June 29, 1956, President Eisenhower signed the legislation establishing the U.S. Interstate Highway System. While this revolutionary network of highways promised faster, more efficient travel, it spelled trouble for Route 66. New interstates paralleled or replaced much of the original road, leaving segments of Route 66 overshadowed or forgotten. By 1970, modern highways had bypassed nearly all of Route 66, and in October 1984, the last original section of the road—at Williams, Arizona—was replaced by Interstate 40. Less than a year later, on June 27, 1985, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials officially decommissioned Route 66, bringing down its iconic highway markers. But this wasn’t the end for the Mother Road. Though it lost its status as a U.S. highway, Route 66 lives on as a legendary symbol of American history, freedom, and nostalgia, celebrated by travelers and enthusiasts who refuse to let its story fade. The road may no longer be official, but its spirit remains unstoppable. Towns like Weatherford, whose Main Street is Route 66, continue to contribute to the historical importance of the highway.
Route 66: The revival of an American icon after 1985
Sarah Cook
Reid Newspapers Digital Media Director
When Route 66 was officially decommissioned June 27, 1985, it didn’t fade into the rearview mirror. Almost immediately, passionate advocates — including federal and state agencies, local organizations, businesses and everyday road trip lovers — stepped up to preserve its legacy. Why? Because Route 66 isn’t just pavement and mile markers — it’s a highway packed with history. Lined with charming towns, quirky attractions and stories that span generations, this iconic road holds a special place in America’s heart. Thanks to these efforts, many of Route 66’s legendary stops earned spots on the National Register of Historic Places. In time, several states — including Oklahoma — designated parts of the highway as State or National Scenic Byways. Businesses and attractions along the route kept their neon signs glowing, welcoming travelers eager to experience the nostalgia of the open road. By 1990, even Congress recognized Route 66’s cultural significance. This led to Public Law 104-400 and a major study by the National Park Service, which confirmed what road trippers already knew — this wasn’t just any highway, it was a national treasure. The findings led to the creation of the National Park Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, which continues to provide funding and support to preserve the highway’s history. In 2016, the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership was formed, bringing together communities, businesses and enthusiasts to ensure Route 66 remains a thriving and celebrated destination for generations to come. As they put it: "The mission of the Road Ahead Partnership is to revitalize and sustain Route 66 as a national icon and international destination, for the benefit of all Route 66 communities, travelers and businesses/attractions, through collaborative partnerships focused on promotion, preservation, research and education, and economic development." And the love for Route 66 isn’t just limited to the United States. Massive fan clubs have sprung up in places like Japan, Germany and Norway, fueling international tourism along the historic route. Towns, particularly in Oklahoma, continue to embrace their Route 66 roots, developing infrastructure and celebrations that honor its past. Weatherford and Miami, for example, keep the history alive with both vibrant Main Streets — better known as Route 66 itself. To commemorate this legendary highway’s 100th anniversary, Reid Newspapers — the largest collection of community newspapers along Route 66 — is hitting the road with readers, bringing stories of the Mother Road’s past, its impact on America and the colorful personalities who made it unforgettable. Through these stories, readers will discover why Route 66 is more than just a road — it’s a living, breathing piece of American history. From roadside diners to landmarks, every mile has a tale to tell and every stop is an adventure waiting to happen. So, buckle up and join Reid Newspapers for the ultimate road trip as Reid Newspapers counts down to Route 66’s centennial in true road trip style.
Route 66: The untamed history of Weatherford
Sarah Cook
Reid Newspapers Digital Media Director
As the furthest west newspaper in the Reid Newspapers family, The Weatherford Daily News is kicking off a journey through the rich history of America’s most iconic highway — Route 66. The road trip begins in Weatherford, the breezy western gateway of Oklahoma, where the spirit of the Mother Road still runs strong. Weatherford, much like other small towns west of the Mississippi River, was born from the westward expansion driven by the railroads. After the land run of 1892 opened Cheyenne and Arapaho lands to white settlement, the town took root as a key stop along the rail lines, shaping its history and future. But it wasn’t just the railroads that put Weatherford on the map — it also was its prime location along the legendary Route 66. Before modern technology, the chronicles of Weatherford’s past were carefully recorded in local newspapers such as the Weatherford Democrat, Custer County Republican and the Arapaho Bee. The Weatherford Daily News maintains archives of these papers, while both the SWOSU library and the Weatherford Public Library are working to digitize these invaluable historical records. Weatherford’s first stroke of luck came in 1898 when Arapaho refused to pay the bonus for the railroad, leading the company to choose an area known as Jordan Flats — now Weatherford — as the rail terminus. The town quickly grew into a bustling hub of commerce and industry, with a rugged Main Street lined with self-sufficient businesses, saloons, gaming dens and general stores. Like many “Wild West” towns, it was a place of opportunity and lawlessness, drawing in notorious figures, including August “Augie” Busch of the Anheuser-Busch family, who was lured to Weatherford to establish a bar in what was considered one of the rowdiest towns in western Oklahoma. At its peak, Weatherford boasted 14 saloons, including the only bar ever owned by the Busch family. The town, however, was not without its tragedies. In the early 20th century, Weatherfordians faced harsh living conditions, with disease, farming accidents and crime claiming many lives. Without modern medical advancements, mortality rates were high, especially among children. Local newspapers of the time painted stark and unfiltered portraits of these grim realities, detailing causes of death that ranged from tuberculosis and typhoid to more shocking incidents like poisoning, lightning strikes and even being gored by bulls. One of the most infamous stories of early Weatherford is the mystery of Dead Woman’s Crossing, tied to the 1905 murder of Kate James. Last seen with a woman named Fanny Norton, James’ body later was discovered near a bridge, her life cut short by gunfire. The case remains shrouded in mystery, as Norton, the prime suspect, committed suicide before providing any answers, leaving many to suspect James’ husband orchestrated the crime. The unanswered questions continue to fascinate generations of historians and true crime enthusiasts alike. Another gripping chapter in Weatherford’s history unfolded along Route 66 in 1941 with the murder of Chief of Police Bruce Rainey. Known for his corrupt dealings, Rainey vanished while working on the famous highway. Days later, his bullet-ridden body was discovered stuffed into a gypsum crevice. Though John Butler Calvert was convicted of the crime, many believed he did not act alone, and the town still whispers about who else might have been involved. The mystery surrounding Rainey’s death adds a layer of intrigue to Weatherford’s connection to Route 66, a highway rich with both history and legend. Route 66 itself played a pivotal role in shaping Weatherford’s identity. Incorporated into the highway’s alignment in 1926, Main Street saw an influx of travelers and businesses eager to serve those venturing along America’s most iconic road. Though the Great Depression took its toll on the town’s farming economy, Weatherford rebounded, evolving into a thriving industrial center. Even after Route 66 was decommissioned in 1971, Weatherford continued to celebrate its deep ties to the Mother Road. Today, visitors can explore historic landmarks that echo the golden age of cross-country travel. Just an hour west of Oklahoma City along Interstate 40, Weatherford boasts an impressive stretch of preserved Route 66 history, alongside Southwestern Oklahoma State University and the renowned Stafford Air and Space Museum, which honors astronaut and Weatherford native Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford. Weatherford’s story is one of resilience, transformation and a deep-rooted connection to Route 66. From its Wild West origins to its role in America’s most famous highway, this small Oklahoma town continues to captivate those who travel its storied roads. To honor this milestone, Reid Newspapers, the largest collection of community newspapers along Route 66, is joining forces to bring readers an unforgettable journey through the highway’s storied past. Reid Newspapers is proud to be part of this legacy, sharing tales of Route 66’s construction, its role in shaping America and the colorful characters who brought it to life. Through these stories, readers will uncover why Route 66 became more than just a highway. It’s a cultural icon, a road where every mile tells a story and every stop adds a chapter to the adventure. From roadside diners to quirky landmarks, this highway holds memories that have spanned generations. So buckle up and join Reid Newspapers in celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in true road trip style. Get ready for a treasure trove of stories, memories and adventures that’ll make readers fall in love with the Mother Road again and again throughout the year. Hop in, ride shotgun and cruise along with us at Route66Papers.com. The ultimate road trip as Reid Newspapers counts down the days until the centennial is just getting started.
Route 66: Unsung Treasures of Vinita, OK
Part 1
First in a series about Vinita’s undervalued Route 66 points of interest. Vinita has a roadside attraction that’s not hidden from view nor is it tucked away on a side street. But it might as well be. Even though it’s right smack dab on Route 66, just a few yards from the Mother Road pavement, it is rarely noticed. When the One Fifty Fest held a city-wide scavenger hunt, this handsome granite monument to the Will Rogers Highway was hard to find, even for longtime residents. It’s not that people are uninterested or lazy. It’s just that a quick glimpse is all anyone can manage while cruising at 60 miles per hour; especially when the object is an earthy pink and the size of a bulky man. No doubt many people have driven by this monument hundreds of times and never noticed it. If travelers like to collect historic markers the way some people collect bird sightings, they have very little (like nothing) to direct them to this monument and therefore they probably miss it altogether. Too bad, because the black letters etched in granite tell the story of Vinita’s deep-rooted connection to Oklahoma’s Favorite Son and the highway named after him. The text is brief but aptly describes one of the town’s most intriguing bits of history. Dedicated Mother Road fans owe it to themselves to seek out this overlooked tribute. It tells a Route 66 story in an elegant and substantial way. It’s a reminder of the town’s double connection to America’s most famous highway: 1.) Will Rogers Highway runs right through Main Street and 2.) Willie “Rabbit” Rogers was a close friend to Vinita’s prominent cowboys, bankers, cattle barons, and several flummoxed teachers.
Route 66: Unsung Treasures of Vinita, OK
Part 2
Route 66: The RV traveler’s walking guide to Vinita’s downtown section of Route 66
Part 1
Part two in a series about obscure points of interest in Vinita, particularly along Route 66. Today’s hidden treasure has an illustrious beginning. Since 1996, a British street artist, known only as Banksy, has stenciled dozens of large images on walls all over England. It’s called graffiti, or street art, or sometimes vandalism by property owners who are never asked for permission before the art work appears on their buildings, typically overnight. Banksy is a political activist and has a worldwide following. Prints of his public images are popular and often expensive. And right here in Vinita, Oklahoma, is a sample of Banksy’s artwork on display. This overlooked miniature version is barely 12 inches high, on ground level, and behind a bench in the normally vacant Vinita Breezeway. And after years of Oklahoma weathering, its impact (if it ever had any) has diminished. Even with its faded appearance, it is still clearly a small copy of one of Banksy’s most famous pieces. Much has been written about Sweep it Under the Carpet and what it means. And to save you a Google search, here is a condensed commentary: the Western World sweeps important global issues under the rug. Okay. But less obvious than that is how did this micro version of a famous artwork appear in downtown Vinita? Who put it there? Why? Who notices it? Is is vandalism or art? Who cares? It’s like the breakout of painted rocks that appeared all around town a few years back. Was it littering or street art? Or just kids decorating for fun? Perhaps the toy-sized graffiti in the Vinita Breezeway was stenciled by someone who identifies with Banksy’s politics and edgy art. Or maybe it’s as playful as an art student who got online and ordered “Banksy for Kids: How to Make Your Own Street Stencil”. Either way, it’s a small wonderment in a small wonderful town.
Vinita loves tourists! Big motor homes are welcome. After all, we have dozens of 18 wheelers thundering along Main Street everyday, so a classy motor home will be a pleasurable distraction. Interested in exploring this small Oklahoma town on foot? Here is a guide that will give you a taste of local culture by walking just one city block. First, you can park your rig safely in the spacious parking lot at the northwest corner of Scraper and Illinois. (Daytime only) Next, stroll across the street to the Vinita Public Library and Eastern Trails Museum where you can get information on events and destinations. Next door is Osborn Drug. If you need OTC health items or some orthopedic shoes for the walk ahead, this is the place for you. Now cross the street to Carter’s Food Center. If the fridge in your Winnebago needs re-supplying, you will find everything in this hometown grocery. Bonus: a surprising collection of fun art throughout the store. Need some quick cash? Just east of Carter’s is BancFirst where a handy ATM awaits you. Now you’re ready to begin the one-block walking tour along historic 66. Head south on Wilson/Main Street. Now you’re walking down the Mother Road! Check out All Booked Up, a bookstore selling new & used books, puzzles, and more. A few steps south is the historic Buffington Barrett Building which the Cherokee Nation recently saved from the wrecking ball. It is not occupied right now but has some interesting enlarged photographs in the window. The Vinita Breezeway is next. Picnic tables and shade, depending on the time of day, make this a good stop for enjoying a meal al fresco (with picnic supplies from the aforementioned Carter’s.) A collection of colorful, informative murals tell the story of Vinita’s past and present. Looking for souvenirs to take to the folks back home? A couple of doors down is 66 Apparel.This spot has lots of clever t-shirts, mugs, magnets, hats, coasters, stickers, postcards socks, and more. It’s unlikely you will need an accountant during your road trip, but a peek in the windows at the office of Chris Conine, CPA will reward you with a close-up view of a wood duck and a Canadian goose in flight (in taxidermy form, but still awesome.) Potters Guild/66 Clayworks probably won’t be open, but you might catch a glimpse of some local handiwork in the window. Keep going to the Antique Mall. It’s hard to miss the bright yellow and turquoise exterior. You will find a wide selection of vintage trinkets to put in your RV to give it a homey touch. Do you need a new lamp or footstool for you home-away-from-home? Jacob’s Furniture will be happy to help. Next, sit a spell at the green bench at the corner of Main Street and Canadian Avenue. Enjoy the fabulous architecture of the Villa Lofts which is still widely known as the “Hotel Vinita” despite its not being a hotel for decades. You will now be ready to cross to the other side of Main Street/66 and head north back toward your coach. But don’t be in a hurry because the east side of the street also has retail, entertainment, and services for your browsing pleasure. See the Weekender edition of the Vinita Daily Journal for the east side chapter of “The RV Traveler’s Walking Guide to Vinita’s Downtown Section of Route 66.”
Route 66: RV traveler’s guide to Vinita’s downtown section of Route 66
Part 2
In case you missed it… Wednesday’s edition of The Walking Guide for RV Travelers suggested RV drivers park their motor homes at the lot across from the library and head south on Main Street (which happily is also Historic Rt. 66) and check out several places on the west side of the street.) Now here are the directions for the east side of Main Street. For the second part of your Rt. 66 walk: cross the street at the corner of Canadian and Wilson and then head north to see the other side of downtown’s Main Street. A family owned business since 1957, Coat’s Furniture is a local favorite. If you want to spend a few minutes sitting in one of their Lazy Boys in the window, no one will kick you out. Just tell them you’re missing your comfy lounger in your motor home down the street. They’ll understand. An alley separates Coat’s from the Vinita Daily Journal, which has been publishing since 1907, the year Oklahoma became a state. Stop by and get a copy. Even better, buy a few copies of recent editions. Nothing expresses this small town’s character the way the Journal does. If you are traveling from a distant location or have a funny travel experience, tell the receptionist and it’s likely you’ll be mentioned in the next edition. Next door to the Journal is an example of Vinita’s upswing in downtown entrepreneurship. Tripp and Charlie’s Vintage Mercantile is part of a consortium that includes Rebel Roast Coffee, Route 66 Pin Trading Site, Panopolis, and an event center (not yet named). You might have to make a return trip to Vinita to see these new businesses which are scheduled to open soon. Another good second-hand store is Pooh’s New and Bearly Used which has an interesting back story. Stop in for a visit. Lots and lots to choose from. The Center Theatre is in an historic building and shows first run movies. And what’s more, you can stop in and buy fresh theater-style popcorn to go. (Can’t get that in your RV microwave!) Is your iPad acting up? The folks at Positronix will help you figure it out for a reasonable price. NEO Orthopedics is at the end of the block. If you have an aching wrist from all that Route 66 driving, or a sprained back from changing a tire, these folks can help you. If their schedule is not fully booked up, you can get same day relief with or without insurance. At the end of the block, in the parking lot at McDonald’s is a colorful mural that highlights Vinita’s history and people. Look for the Route 66 logo. It’s a perfect backdrop for a photo to commemorate your time in Vinita. Now you’ve come to the end of your “Route 66 Walk Down Vinita’s Main Street.” Go West! Your RV awaits you, just a block down Illinois. CUTLINE: Motor homes are welcome in downtown Vinita. After parking the rig across from the library, a one-block tour of Main Street/Route 66 would be a delightful stop for RV travelers.
Route 66: Vinita entrepreneur Beth Hilburn scores big as community advocate
Part 1
Beth Hilburn, along with her husband Alan, is the owner and manager of Hi-Way Cafe and the Western Motel on Route 66 in Vinita. She is also a leader in ventures which include Vinita Main Street, Jefferson Highway Association, Oklahoma Route 66 Association, Vinita Friends of Rt. 66 and the Route 66 Centennial Celebration. The Vinita Area Chamber of Commerce named you “Person of the Year” for 2024 for all the work you do for the community. What is your motivation? I actually love the nostalgia of it. I love being about recreating the memories of days gone by. The kids now have no idea how great it once was. I’m also a huge history person so I enjoy the preservation aspect, too. Where and when did you graduate from high school? I graduated in 1987 from Cross Plains High School in Cross Plains, Texas. Alan (husband) graduated in 1985. We were high school sweethearts. What kind of reader are you? I like to read when I have time; mostly history, autobiography, biography, educational, self-help. Also, I am old school and I like to physically hold a book and turn the pages. No Kindle books over here. Have you ever had any dangerous or disruptive encounters at the cafe? No. Nothing that required intervention. We did have a guy that I found upside down in the dumpster looking for food. When he saw me, he jumped out, apologized, and took off. I went inside and made him a sandwich and drove around until I found him. What is something that would surprise people about the cafe? In a typical week, we crack up and cook over 1,600 eggs. Oklahoma weather can be pretty severe. Are you ever frightened by it? Our home was built in the 1940s so we hardly even know when it is storming outside it’s so solid and almost sound-proof. I was never afraid of wind but now I’m a total ball of nerves because of the two giants in the parking lot. You’re talking about those huge (20 ft) cowboy and Indian statues. Yes, they’re great tourist attractions and people from all over the world stop and have their pictures taken with them. It’s a fun part of Oklahoma Route 66 they can take home with them. What is your pet situation? We have two dogs, three horses, and some barn cats. Do you have a favorite kind of music? I don’t listen to a ton of music other than when I’m in the car and it’s always The Message, a Christian contemporary channel. I listen to podcasts about news, history, or business. As far as my favorite musical artist, it will always be George Strait. Since your childhood home in Texas, how many times have you moved? After leaving home, I moved to Stephenville, Texas and attended Tarleton State University. Then Alan and I got married and we purchased our first home in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Then we moved to our home here. What was your job before the Hi-Way Cafe? Alan and I had our own small trucking company. He drove a truck and handled all the leased drivers/loads and I did the payroll, negotiated rates and handled all the billing/invoices. Prior to that, I was in the marketing department at American Airlines for 15 years. Do you have a favorite movie? I rarely sit still for an entire movie. If I don’t get drawn in by the first 15 minutes, I’m gone. But I do have some favorites: Tombstone, American President, and Pure Country with George Strait. I’m actually in the audience in that movie! Is there something you’ve always wanted to try but something was holding you back? No. Not really. If I set my mind on something, I rarely hold back.
Route 66: Vinita entrepreneur Beth Hilburn scores big as community advocate
Part 2
Beth Hilburn, along with her husband Alan, is the owner and manager of Hi-Way Cafe and the Western Motel on Route 66 in Vinita. She is also a leader in ventures which include Vinita Main Street, Jefferson Highway Association, Oklahoma Route 66 Association, Vinita Friends of Rt. 66, and the Route 66 Centennial Celebration. You have an unusual family configuration. Yes. Our first two children are 27 and 19. And our little boy is 5. All three of our kids are adopted via private adoptions. They are absolutely the best thing we have ever accomplished and are such an incredible blessing. So all three are about a decade apart. Yes, and Alan says, “This is our last decade!” Now we’ll switch gears and just spoil our grandson. It’s unconventional but it’s the greatest thing I’ve ever experienced. Are you musical? In my lifetime, I’ve played the clarinet, oboe, piano, and organ. But not lately. What was that like? Being skilled in four different instruments? I enjoyed playing. It was great being recognized for it, too. I actually won the John Philip Sousa Band Award my senior year in high school. What’s the John Philip Sousa Award? It’s a national award presented annually to one high school band student for quality musicianship. Did music take up all your time? No.I was a softball player from age 8 to 19. I was always the pitcher and was picked up by teams for tournaments in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and New Mexico. I got a scholarship in Maine; but Alan was in the picture then and no way would I go that far away. I also played basketball. Is there someone you wish you could meet? I had a great-great grandmother who was named Eliza Woo Le Noo Squay Snead. She died when she was 45 and is buried on private property on Mustang Creek near Ketchum. I’m Cherokee and Delaware, but I think she was Cherokee. Where is the most interesting place you’ve ever visited? I’ve been fortunate to travel pretty extensively. I actually loved Latin America and the people there. Bogata, Columbia and Rio de Janerio were two of my favorites. I also loved Belgium and England and the U.S. Virgin Islands. What is Christmas like for you? I’m a Christmas at the Griswald’s kinda girl. Decor everywhere. Our family traditions have changed significantly the last couple of years with the passing of my parents. We are still trying to navigate that. We attend services and really spend time focusing on the true meaning of Christmas. What advice you would give someone who was considering opening a restaurant? Wow, you saved the best for last. I would encourage them to make it their own. It’s hard work and long hours so you need to make sure you enjoy it. The profit margin isn’t much so you can’t expect to make a lot of money. You have to like people and feel grateful for the impact you can have on each and every person who comes through the door. Always remember: it’s an experience, not just a meal.
Who Built Route 66? The Patchwork Road That United America
When Route 66 officially opened in November 1926, it wasn’t a brand-new highway—it was a bold attempt to tie together more than 2,400 miles of existing roads from Chicago to Santa Monica. The project’s architect was Tulsa businessman Cyrus Avery, often called the “Father of Route 66,” who helped design the route through the federal highway system to connect the Midwest to the Pacific coast. Funding came through the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1921, which created a cost-sharing model between Washington and the states. The federal government paid up to half the construction costs, while each state was responsible for the rest—often relying on gasoline taxes or local bond issues. That meant Route 66 wasn’t built evenly; every state managed its own segment, from contracts and materials to labor and maintenance. In practice, that created a patchwork road. Illinois and Missouri paved early with concrete and asphalt, while much of New Mexico and Arizona remained gravel well into the 1930s. Oklahoma—Avery’s home state—became a hub of experimentation, using crushed rock and asphalt to strengthen the surface against heavy traffic and weather. Labor was just as varied. In the late 1920s, small contractors and local road crews did most of the work, but the Great Depression brought thousands of new workers through New Deal programs. The Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps expanded and paved long stretches of Route 66 across Oklahoma, Texas, and the Southwest, turning the once rugged path into a national lifeline. By the time the entire route was paved in 1938, Route 66 had become more than a road—it was a symbol of American cooperation. Built piece by piece by states, local contractors, and Depression-era laborers, the “Mother Road” proved that a patchwork of efforts could still lead to one connected nation.
Stay connected with Reid Newspapers! Discover new Route 66-themed stories every Wednesday leading up to the 100 year anniversary in 2026!