Signs, Signs: Route 66

When visiting the American Southwest, we always make sure to fit in another stretch of historic Route 66. It is a treat like no other driving down these old roads that so many before us have taken in search of a better life for their families.

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Springfield, Missouri is recognized as the birthplace of U.S. Route 66, given its name there in 1926. Following the old trails laid out by the early explorers and railroads, this new highway quickly became a popular route for trucks because of its flat, open stretches.  It eventually reached across the country from the coast of California, up to the windy shores of Lake Michigan.

This was a road that offered hope. The Dust Storms of the 1930s forced many families from Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas and Texas to head west to California in search of agricultural jobs.

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 After World War II, Route 66 came to define a generation looking for adventure and freedom on the open road…businesses flourished along the roadside, eager to profit from this new tourist trade.

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As progress escalated, faster highways began to replace the old roads. Route 66 was deemed irrelevant, and in 1985, was replaced by the new Interstate Highway System

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Many changes were made to the route over the years, with sections altered, discontinued and rerouted; yet it remains today one of the best scenic drives to be found anywhere.

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The stretches that survive

are a wonderful slice

of history.

Diners and gas stations

line the route, reminders

of a time when

 life seemed simpler

and the

future resonated

with hope.

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Time slows down on this gentle

 route, and I never tire of it.

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We’ve covered less than half of the route so far, from California, through Arizona to New Mexico, but eagerly anticipate completing the rest.

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Amarillo, Texas to

Chicago, Illinois

 sounds like a heck

of a road trip,

 don’t you think?

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For more signs from all over the world, drop in to visit Lesley at the link below....

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http://signs2.blogspot.com/

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