Get Your Kicks with Reid Newspapers on Route 66!
The Mother Road is turning 100 in THIS YEAR, 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.
Arizona’s Route 66: Preserving the Spirit of the Mother Road
Arizona’s portion of Route 66 offers some of the most scenic and best-preserved miles along the historic highway, stretching roughly 385 miles from Topock near the California border to Lupton on the edge of New Mexico. For travelers heading west from Oklahoma, Arizona’s stretch carries the highway deeper into the desert Southwest—where red rock vistas and old highway towns keep the past alive. Designated in 1926, Route 66 served as a vital corridor for families, truckers, and tourists bound for the West before it was officially decommissioned in 1985. Unlike many states, Arizona retained several original stretches of pavement, including the famous section between Seligman and Kingman often described as one of the best-preserved in the nation. Across northern Arizona, travelers encounter communities that still celebrate the highway’s heritage. Oatman’s winding mountain drive and free-roaming burros offer a glimpse of the state’s mining history, while Kingman features the Arizona Route 66 Museum. In Seligman, barber Angel Delgadillo, a longtime resident, is often called the “guardian of Route 66.” In the 1980s, as the interstate bypassed much of northern Arizona, Delgadillo led efforts to promote tourism along the old highway. His advocacy helped preserve motels, diners, and shops, turning Seligman into a destination for travelers seeking the nostalgia of mid-century Americana. In Williams, neon lights and classic diners capture the charm of mid-century road trips. Farther east, the road climbs toward Flagstaff and the high country, passing through a mix of historic motels and mountain scenery. Winslow draws visitors to its “Standin’ on the Corner” park, inspired by the Eagles’ 1972 song, which features a life-size statue and murals celebrating the town’s place in music and Route 66 history. In Holbrook, the Wigwam Motel and nearby Petrified Forest National Park—part of the only national park crossed by the original Route 66 alignment—keep the vintage spirit alive. Today, Arizona’s Route 66 remains a living museum of Americana, where restored gas stations, diners, and roadside attractions preserve the highway’s enduring sense of adventure.
Icons of the open road: Exploring Route 66 landmarks
Few roads in America carry the same sense of nostalgia and adventure as Route 66, the historic highway stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. Along the way, travelers encounter landmarks that capture the spirit of mid-century road trips and the quirky charm of roadside Americana. In Catoosa, the whimsical Blue Whale draws visitors with its bright blue paint and playful design. Built in the 1970s as a swimming hole, this oversized sculpture has become an enduring photo stop for Route 66 travelers. Not far west, in Amarillo, Texas, the colorful Cadillac Ranch offers a completely different experience. Half-buried, spray-painted Cadillacs planted in the ground since 1974 invite visitors to leave their mark, making it part art installation, part interactive roadside attraction. The Wigwam Motels in Holbrook, Arizona, and San Bernardino, California, hark back to a time when traveling the highway meant overnight stays in quirky, themed accommodations. These teepee-shaped rooms, built in the 1930s and 1940s, remain popular for travelers seeking a mix of history and nostalgia. Further north, the Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis, Missouri, is a striking piece of engineering with its unusual 22-degree bend over the Mississippi River. While closed to vehicles, it remains open to walkers and cyclists, offering a scenic glimpse into the route’s storied past. For those chasing the ultimate endpoint of the road, the Santa Monica Pier in California represents the symbolic finish line. With its iconic Ferris wheel and ocean views, the pier captures the sense of accomplishment and adventure that Route 66 evokes. Along the way, other notable stops include Meramec Caverns in Missouri, a vast limestone cave system that has been welcoming visitors since the 1930s, and the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, where vintage cars, photographs, and memorabilia tell the story of America’s most famous highway. Roadside oddities like the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois—a towering “Muffler Man” statue holding a rocket—and the neon signs and desert charm of Roy’s Motel and Café in Amboy, California, continue to captivate travelers and photographers alike. These landmarks, both large and small, remind those driving the route that Route 66 is more than a highway—it’s a journey through American history, culture, and imagination.
California’s Route 66: From desert sands to the Pacific’s end of the trail
Stretching more than 300 miles from the Mojave Desert to the Pacific Ocean, California’s section of historic Route 66 marks the final leg of the “Mother Road” — a journey that ends at Santa Monica Pier after crossing eight states and nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago. Entering from Needles on the Arizona border, the highway winds through the wide-open expanse of the Mojave Desert, where travelers encounter some of Route 66’s most iconic sights. Among them are the volcanic Amboy Crater and the famed Roy’s Motel and Café, a restored midcentury stop whose neon sign still draws visitors to the remote desert town. Nearby, Newberry Springs’ Bagdad Café gained fame after the 1987 film of the same name. From the desert, the route passes through Barstow and Victorville, home to two Route 66 museums celebrating the highway’s history. The Barstow museum is located inside a former Harvey House train depot, while Victorville’s is part of the city’s historic downtown district. Continuing west, the route enters San Bernardino, where the site of the first McDonald’s restaurant now operates as a museum dedicated to the chain’s origins. The road then weaves through the Los Angeles Basin, tracing a path through Pasadena, downtown Los Angeles, and Beverly Hills before reaching the coast. The Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena stands as one of the architectural highlights along the way, and Historic Route 66 signs still mark the old alignment through the San Gabriel Valley. California’s stretch of Route 66 officially ends near the intersection of Ocean and Santa Monica Boulevards, though most travelers finish their journey at the Santa Monica Pier, where the “End of the Trail” sign serves as a symbolic finish line. Once a vital corridor for Dust Bowl migrants and midcentury vacationers, Route 66 remains a living monument to American travel and westward dreams. Preservation efforts by the California Historic Route 66 Association continue to restore the vintage motels, diners, and neon signs that helped define the nation’s most famous highway.
Haunted Highways: Legends Live On Along Route 66
Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, the Mother Road has carried countless travelers since its official designation in 1926. But long after the engines go quiet, stories still echo from its forgotten towns and empty stretches — tales of lights that float, footsteps that never fade, and highways said to be haunted by history itself. Among the most famous is the Hornet Spooklight, a glowing orb seen for generations along the old Route 66 alignment near the Oklahoma–Missouri border. Locals describe the light as a flickering sphere that drifts and dances through the hills outside Quapaw. Scientists have offered theories ranging from refracted headlights to atmospheric gases, but believers insist it’s something else entirely — a spirit lantern or a lost traveler’s ghost. The phenomenon, known regionally as the “Tri-State Spooklight,” remains one of the longest-documented mysteries tied to the highway, according to the Legends of America history site. Farther west in Bristow, Oklahoma, the Frisco Depot — a restored 1923 train station and museum — has its own resident spirit. Volunteers claim the presence, affectionately nicknamed “Charlie,” is protective of the building, often pacing the floors after hours. Nearby, staff at K’s Korner, a small store off Route 66 and Highway 48, have reported flickering lights, slamming doors, and unexplained footsteps. The ghosts along Route 66 aren’t always human. In the desolate expanses of Newberry Springs and Amboy, California, entire communities have faded into near silence since the interstate system bypassed them. What’s left — skeletal motels, broken neon, rusting gas pumps — lend a haunting visual of a road abandoned by time. According to The Guardian, preservationists continue to restore landmarks like Roy’s Motel & Café in Amboy, a bright relic standing against the desert backdrop as both a symbol of resilience and a reminder of what was lost. Other legends follow Route 66’s western bends into Santa Fe, New Mexico, where La Fonda on the Plaza, once a prime stop for early travelers, has been the site of numerous ghost tales. Guests report ghostly figures in wedding gowns or business suits roaming the halls, continuing the folklore that has kept the hotel on lists of America’s most haunted historic lodgings. While modern travelers often come in search of nostalgia, many find something deeper — the eerie feeling that the spirit of Route 66 itself still lingers. Whether it’s the unexplained light over Quapaw or the silent glow of an old neon sign in the Mojave, the highway’s ghosts remind visitors that even when America moved on, some stories never stopped moving.
Illinois: Where Route 66 Began Its Journey Across America
Illinois is home to the first stretch of the historic U.S. Route 66, the 2,448-mile highway once known as the “Main Street of America.” Established on Nov. 11, 1926, the road began at the intersection of Adams Street and Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago and ran southwest through the state before crossing into Missouri at the Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis. The Illinois portion, spanning roughly 300 miles, was the first completed section of the highway and remains one of the most intact. It passes through major cities such as Joliet, Bloomington, Springfield, and Pontiac, offering a mix of urban landmarks and small-town Americana that helped define Route 66’s national identity. Early travelers along the route often stopped at roadside diners, motor courts, and service stations that grew up beside the highway. Several of those historic locations still operate today, including Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant in Chicago, a breakfast stop for motorists since 1923, and the Ariston Café in Litchfield, one of the oldest surviving Route 66 restaurants and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other notable attractions include the Rialto Square Theatre and Old Joliet Prison in Joliet; the Gemini Giant statue in Wilmington; the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac; and Springfield’s Cozy Dog Drive In, which claims credit for the invention of the corn dog in 1946. The highway also passes near several Abraham Lincoln landmarks in the state capital, including the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Old State Capitol. Scenic stretches between towns showcase the Illinois countryside that early motorists described as the “heart of the heartland.” Today, drivers still find open farmland, restored gas stations, and neon signs recalling the golden age of American road travel. The Chain of Rocks Bridge, with its unusual 22-degree bend over the Mississippi River, now serves as a pedestrian and cycling path marking the western gateway into Missouri. Preservation efforts and annual events such as the Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival continue to draw visitors from around the world, keeping alive the spirit of the highway that began in Illinois nearly a century ago.
Kansas’ Short but Storied Stretch of Route 66 Offers Classic Americana Charm
Though Route 66 spans more than 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, Kansas’ stretch covers just 13.2 miles — the shortest of any state along the “Mother Road.” Still, this small segment in the state’s southeast corner offers travelers a vivid glimpse of classic Americana and early highway history. The route enters Kansas near Galena from Missouri and exits south of Baxter Springs into Oklahoma, passing through just three towns — Galena, Riverton and Baxter Springs. Each community has embraced its place in Route 66 lore, preserving landmarks and memories from the golden age of road travel. In Galena, a once-thriving mining town, visitors can stop by Cars on the Route, a restored 1930s gas station featuring “Tow Tater,” the tow truck that inspired Pixar’s “Tow Mater” character. The town’s mining museum and colorful murals also highlight the area’s deep ties to both industry and nostalgia. A few miles west lies Riverton, home to the Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store. Open since 1925 — a year before Route 66 was designated — the shop still serves deli sandwiches and road trip souvenirs, much as it did nearly a century ago. Further down the highway, Baxter Springs offers one of the most authentic Route 66 main streets in the country. Its restored Phillips 66 gas station now serves as a visitor center, while the Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum traces the region’s Wild West and highway past. Just outside of town, the Rainbow Bridge, also known as the Brush Creek Bridge, stands as the last remaining Marsh Arch bridge on the entire route — a 1923 concrete design now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While Kansas’ Route 66 portion is short, many enthusiasts say it’s among the best-preserved. The absence of heavy commercialization gives travelers a quiet, authentic experience — a snapshot of midcentury America that has stood the test of time. From vintage bridges to classic diners, Kansas’ 13-mile stretch proves that even the smallest piece of Route 66 can leave a big impression on those chasing the spirit of the open road.
Historic Route 66 Draws Travelers Through Missouri
Missouri’s portion of historic U.S. Route 66 draws travelers with its blend of historic landmarks, small-town character, and iconic roadside attractions. The route, which spans roughly 317 miles, just ahead of California’s 314 miles and behind New Mexico’s 370 miles, reaching from St. Louis to the Kansas border, features landmarks and attractions that celebrate the highway’s legacy. In St. Louis visitors often stop at the Gateway Arch and the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a curved bridge over the Mississippi River that once carried Route 66 traffic. Towns along the route, such as Cuba, showcase murals highlighting local history, while diners and motels preserve the classic roadside experience. Other notable stops include Meramec Caverns, Waynesville, and Rolla, where travelers can view vintage gas stations, neon signs, and restored buildings from the 1920s and 1930s. Springfield, known as the birthplace of Route 66, offers visitors a downtown area filled with historic architecture and museums celebrating the Mother Road. The route also provides scenic views of the Ozark foothills, with winding roads and rivers adding to the experience. Local officials and tourism groups say Route 66 remains an important cultural and economic asset, drawing both history enthusiasts and casual road trippers. For travelers, Missouri’s portion of Route 66 offers a mix of historic sites, roadside attractions, and scenic landscapes, keeping alive the legacy of one of America’s most iconic highways.
Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial with a Two-Season Road Trip from Oklahoma
For Oklahomans, the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026 offers more than nostalgia — it’s an open invitation to hit the highway that helped define America’s love for the road. And because Oklahoma sits right in the middle of the Mother Road, it’s the perfect place to begin an adventure that can stretch from Chicago to California. Rather than tackling all 2,400-plus miles at once, consider celebrating the centennial in two seasons — heading west this winter and east once spring returns. You’ll not only enjoy better weather but get to experience both sides of Route 66’s story, from sun-soaked deserts to Midwestern main streets. Part One: Chasing the Winter Sun — Oklahoma to California With colder months settling in, the western stretch of Route 66 offers a perfect warm-weather escape. Leaving from central Oklahoma, travelers can wind through Elk City, Sayre, and Texola, crossing into Texas and on through New Mexico, Arizona, and California — a trip of roughly 1,400 miles. Winter temperatures are mild across the Southwest, making it a great time to explore desert landmarks and roadside history without the summer crowds. Stop for neon nostalgia in Tucumcari, New Mexico, and explore the mix of old and new along Central Avenue in Albuquerque. In Arizona, the highway cuts straight through Petrified Forest National Park, the only national park on the route, before climbing toward the mountain charm of Flagstaff and the timeless roadside character of Kingman. The grand finale, of course, comes at the Santa Monica Pier, the symbolic end of Route 66 — a fitting finish for the first half of your centennial journey. Whether you spend a week or two tracing the highway west, you’ll drive through living history, all while trading Oklahoma’s winter winds for California sunshine. Part Two: A Spring Drive to Chicago — The Road’s Beginning When late spring arrives, the second leg of the centennial celebration awaits — the eastern route from Oklahoma to Chicago. This half is shorter, roughly 1,000 miles, but filled with small-town character and Midwestern energy. Start again from Oklahoma City or Tulsa and head northeast through Miami, crossing the short but scenic stretch of Route 66 in southeast Kansas. In Galena, restored gas stations and “Cars” movie landmarks pay tribute to the route’s quirky charm. Missouri brings classic stops like Springfield’s Route 66 museum and the Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis — once a vital Mississippi River crossing for travelers heading west. From there, Illinois offers a string of postcard-perfect towns such as Pontiac, with its Route 66 Hall of Fame and colorful murals, before the road’s journey ends at the “Begin Route 66” sign on Adams Street in downtown Chicago. Late spring is ideal for this stretch: festivals bloom, the weather is comfortable, and the Mother Road is alive with travelers making the same pilgrimage you started months earlier. Making the Centennial Your Own Splitting the drive into two seasons makes the full Route 66 experience more manageable — and meaningful. Oklahoma becomes your base camp, a literal midpoint between two coasts and two eras of Americana. Keep a travel journal or photo album to document both halves, or join one of the Route 66 Association’s centennial caravans that will cruise sections of the highway in 2026. Book a night or two at a restored motel, grab a burger at an old roadside diner, and take time to chat with locals who’ve kept the road’s spirit alive for generations. When you’ve stood on the pier in Santa Monica and at the start sign in Chicago, you’ll have completed something few can claim — the full Route 66 experience, all beginning right here in Oklahoma. Because if the Mother Road represents freedom and discovery, there’s no better way to celebrate her 100th birthday than to simply get out and drive.
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.
Route 66: America in Asphalt and Adventure
Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 has long been more than a highway—it’s a lens through which to see the story of America itself. As travelers move from small-town diners to neon-lit motels, from rolling plains to desert landscapes, the road becomes a microcosm of the nation: its triumphs, struggles, and contradictions all visible in miniature. Along the route, towns thrive or fade, mirroring broader economic shifts. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s sent thousands west along Route 66 in search of work and survival, and Steinbeck immortalized this migration in The Grapes of Wrath, portraying the highway as both a path to opportunity and a corridor of hardship. Even now, remnants of that era—abandoned gas stations, old motels, and vintage signage—tell stories of resilience in the face of adversity. Human interactions along the road reflect America’s enduring spirit. Strangers become allies, roadside communities rally around travelers, and quirky attractions reveal creativity and optimism thriving even in hardship. Route 66 captures the tension between promise and reality: it is both a literal journey across states and a symbolic journey through social and economic landscapes. Today, tourists drive the “Mother Road” chasing nostalgia, adventure, and a glimpse of the American story. From Dust Bowl migrants to modern-day road trippers, Route 66 remains a mirror of the country itself, showing how communities endure, adapt, and keep moving forward—one mile at a time.
Get Your Kicks: How Route 66 became the soundtrack of the American road
Long before playlists and GPS, America’s travelers had one tune to guide them west — “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” Its rhythm carried the spirit of a generation that saw the open road not just as a path, but as a promise. The song was born in 1946, when jazz pianist and songwriter Bobby Troup packed up his car in Chicago and headed for Los Angeles. As he traced the newly famous Route 66, his wife, Cynthia, suggested the now-iconic title. Troup jotted down town names as they passed them — St. Louis, Joplin, Oklahoma City — turning a map into melody. Once in California, Troup played the tune for Nat King Cole, whose smooth, upbeat version turned it into an instant hit. What began as one man’s cross-country road trip became an anthem for an entire nation on the move. In the decades that followed, “Route 66” kept finding new lanes through American culture. Chuck Berry gave it a rock-and-roll edge in 1961, followed by renditions from The Rolling Stones, Depeche Mode, and dozens more. Each version carried the same refrain — a celebration of wanderlust and motion, of chasing something just over the next horizon. Television picked up where music left off. The 1960s CBS series “Route 66” followed two young drifters in a Corvette exploring life along the highway. It wasn’t just a show about travel — it was about identity, change, and the restless heart of mid-century America. Viewers tuned in weekly for adventure, but what they really got was a reflection of a country still discovering itself. Even after Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, its soundtrack refused to fade. Pixar’s Cars brought the highway — and its music — to a new generation in 2006, reviving the nostalgic neon and small-town Americana that once lined the “Main Street of America.” For millions who’ve never driven a mile of it, the song still paints a picture of the wide-open West, the smell of asphalt after rain, and the freedom of motion itself. At its heart, “Route 66” is more than a song. It’s a story about what happens when a road becomes part of a nation’s identity — when melody meets map and music becomes memory. Seventy-plus years later, that chorus still hums beneath the American highway. Whether through a car speaker, vinyl static, or movie soundtrack, travelers can still get their kicks — and maybe a little bit of history — on Route 66.
Texas’ Slice of Route 66: A Short Drive Through Americana
Texas may have the second shortest stretch of the iconic Route 66—just 177 miles across the Panhandle—but it offers some of the most memorable stops along the Mother Road. From Texola at the Oklahoma border to Glenrio at the New Mexico line, travelers encounter wide-open plains, small-town charm, and a nostalgic peek at mid-century Americana. Towns like Amarillo, Shamrock, and Adrian flourished thanks to Route 66, supporting diners, motels, and gas stations for weary travelers. Amarillo’s Big Texan Steak Ranch became a kitschy icon, famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge and roadside flair, while Shamrock’s U-Drop Inn, a restored 1930s Art Deco gas station and diner, now serves as a museum celebrating the highway’s history. In Adrian, the Midpoint Cafe marks the halfway point between Chicago and Los Angeles, a must-stop for anyone chasing the full Route 66 experience. Texas’ stretch also embraces the quirky side of the road. Amarillo’s Cadillac Ranch, with its half-buried, spray-painted Cadillacs, reflects both car culture and the playful spirit of the highway. Along the way, vintage neon signs, motels, and diners keep the Mother Road alive, even as Interstate 40 has diverted much of the original traffic. Today, the Panhandle segment of Route 66 draws road-trippers, bikers, and international tourists seeking a taste of classic Americana. Though it may be short in miles, Texas’ stretch offers a concentrated experience of the people, places, and culture that made Route 66 a national symbol—and a reminder that sometimes the journey is just as memorable as the destination.
New Route 66 Neon Sign Marks Progress on Vinita’s Centennial Welcome Center Project
As construction is well underway for Vinita’s Route 66 Centennial project, which is the renovation and restoration of a 1950’s era visitor/welcome center at the former Oliver’s Gas Station, a new Route 66 sign was erected early Wednesday morning. The vintage station is located on the south end of town. The neon sign, designed by Encinos Signs, will be lit up soon, and depicts the Route 66 icon which is installed at the tip of the gull wing of the remodeled filling station. The original station was owned by the Woolman family and was purchased from the City of Vinita via a Route 66 Revitalization grant. Encinos Signs is the same company that designed and erected two vintage signs in the past year at Hi-Way Cafe and the Western Motel, which are both Vinita Route 66 icons and a magnet for Route 66 enthusiasts from around the world to visit. The sign and the gull wing will preserve the historic sense of Route 66 in Vinita during the 1950s era, and serve as a welcome center, tourism stop, and for other potential purposes in the future. At Tuesday night’s City Council, City Administrator Brian Prince gave a quick update on the progress of the restoration project, noting that a lot of inside work has been ongoing, including selecting paint color and other aspects. Councilor Terry Young inquired about plans to recognize the Woolman family and others who were part of Oliver’s Filling Station for so many years. Prince said there are plans to do something. Vinita Economic & Community Development Director Misty Deffenbaugh also confirmed that recognizing the family and history of the station was part of the grant fulfillment. She added that the Woolman family donated some memorabilia from the original station to be used in the Route 66 center. Young and Councilor Jeff Lair also inquired about the uses of the welcome center and if hours of operation were planned yet. Prince responded that there are different options and inquiries from the community and that while there are no set plans yet on hours, use, and other details, they are looking at the opportunities for uses of the building. They will be announced when those plans are finalized. Deffenbaugh also added in an interview on Wednesday morning that there are plans in the making for a visit to the Vinita Route 66 Centennial project by state officials. A ribbon-cutting for the new welcome center is tentatively set for March with a visit from Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell and others to go along with Vinita’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration. Another inquiry about the project from councilors was if the popular phone booth would remain. Prince said that it won’t be in the same place as the original, but they plan to find a place for it. Deffenbaugh said that under the gull wing and Route 66 vintage neon sign, there will be a photo op area for Route 66 visitors. Also, the neon and other lighting from the Route 66 sign will also be added to the tip of the gull wing where it is erected.
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