Route 66: Then and Now

October 22, 2009

Sometimes referred to as The Mother Road or Main Street of America, Route 66 was paved in 1926 and was the primary way for drivers to get from Chicago to Los Angeles until the creation of the interstate highway system.

During the Great Depression, countless farmers packed up their lives and migrated West via Route 66. Later, during America’s greatest period of prosperity following World War II, the road became filled with neon signs, roadside diners, motels, gas stations, cheesy tourist traps, kitsch galore and lots of attractions that include the words “the world’s biggest…”

A replica of Stonehenge alongside Route 66 in Rolla, Missouri

An Indian Jewelry Shop on Route 66 in Lupton, Arizona

The World's Largest Gift Store in Phillipsburg, Missouri — The World’s Largest Gift Store in Phillipsburg, Missouri

The World's Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville, Illinois, is actually just a painted water tower — The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville, Illinois, is actually just a painted water tower

The Demise of Route 66

Unfortunately, Route 66 could not withstand the effects of the interstate system. As more and more drivers opted to take the fastest way across the country, more and more roadside businesses dried up.

The final blow was dealt in 1985 when Route 66 was officially decommissioned. Many segments were renamed with a new highway number while others were just paved over and became county roads.

A stretch of the Mother Road in New Kirk, New Mexico

Route 66 Old Road — In a few places, the original road of Route 66 has been preserved

Route 66 sign — Finding Route 66 in modern times can be something of a scavenger hunt

Route 66 sign - the Mother Road — In some places, Route 66 is more clearly marked than others

How to Drive Route 66 Today

Today, driving Route 66 proves to be a tough task. Some places have signs pointing drivers in the right direction, but roads end abruptly and one often has to hop onto the interstate for a few exits to pick it back up.

However, once Route 66 has been found it is still a treasure chest of Americana: a throwback to a more pure time in the country’s history. While the majority of the old businesses have shut down, many others exist as tourist attractions and have been restored to their original glory.