Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” has held a special place in American pop culture since its establishment in 1926. As one of the original highways within the U.S. Highway System, it fostered an era of adventure, freedom, and a uniquely American spirit.
Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, the 2,448-mile-long road connected the urban and rural communities across the nation, providing a pathway to the West’s opportunities. Consequently, Route 66 also inspired various facets of cultural expression, from literature and music to television.
Notable literary works, such as John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” imbued Route 66 with symbolism of hope and despair during the Dust Bowl era. Later, Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” continued to elevate the Mother Road as an icon of freedom and exploration.
In music, Bobby Troup’s song “Get Your Kicks” and Nat King Cole’s rendition of the same tune further solidified Route 66’s presence in the American imagination. Additionally, the television series “Route 66” in the 1960s broadcasted the spirit of adventure and the open road to millions of viewers, generating a lasting nostalgia for the iconic highway.
Spanning the diverse landscapes of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, Route 66 enriched travelers’ lives through its connections to various cultural, geographical, and historical landmarks.
Although the road was decommissioned in 1985, its significance in American pop culture remains unrivaled, with the spirit of the Mother Road continuing to evoke cherished memories and inspire new generations to embark on their journey along the legendary route.
The Historical Journey of Route 66
The Making and Decommission of Route 66
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” was one of the first highways in the United States, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. The concept for this road was pioneered by individuals such as Cyrus Avery, who wanted to connect small towns and communities across the Midwest and Southwest.
Established in 1926, Route 66 served as a major thoroughfare for those traveling within the United States, and it soon gained popularity as a cultural and historic icon.
Over time, however, the highway’s significance waned with the development of the Interstate Highway System, spearheaded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Modern, more efficient highways gradually replaced Route 66, and in 1985, it was finally decommissioned, ceasing to be an official US highway.
Route 66 During the Great Depression and World War II
During the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, countless families left their devastated farms and sought a better life in California, using Route 66 as their main route.
John Steinbeck’s famous novel “The Grapes of Wrath” captures the story of these migrants, coining the term “Mother Road” for Route 66 in the process. During this time, other small businesses and motels sprouted along the highway, providing services to travelers and contributing to developing a unique roadside culture.
As World War II began, Route 66’s significance shifted again. Military personnel and equipment were required to transport, and the highway allowed rapid movement across the country.
The increased traffic contributed to the road’s maintenance and improvements, serving as a vital artery for the United States throughout the war.
Over the years, Route 66 has served as the backdrop for various forms of media that captured its cultural significance, from Nat King Cole’s famous song “Route 66” to the popular television series set along the iconic highway.
Such depictions further entwined Route 66 within American pop culture, increasing nostalgia for the road and its rich history.
Today, despite its decommission, Route 66 remains a cherished symbol of the American experience. Many sections of the highway are preserved as part of state and national parks, allowing us to revisit and appreciate the cultural history embedded in this iconic stretch of road.
Thanks to efforts from organizations and travelers alike, the spirit of Route 66 will live on, immortalized in various art forms and continuing to inspire new generations to embark on their journey on the “Mother Road.”
Route 66 in American Pop Culture
Route 66 in Literature
One of the first and most famous mentions of Route 66 in American literature is in John Steinbeck’s classic novel, The Grapes of Wrath. In the book, the Joad family embarks on a difficult journey from Oklahoma to California in search of a better life.
Route 66 is the literal road and a powerful symbol of their hope. Known as the Mother Road, Route 66 has since inspired countless other authors celebrating American adventure, freedom, and life on the open road.
Route 66 in Music
In music, Route 66 is best known for the catchy hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” written by Bobby Troup and popularized by Nat King Cole in 1946.
Various artists, such as the Rolling Stones and Chuck Berry, have covered this iconic tune, illustrating the timeless appeal of the road and its connection to American pop culture. The song’s catchy lyrics and upbeat melody evoke images of wide-open spaces, adventure, and the quintessential American road trip.
Route 66 in Movies
The allure of Route 66 has been captured in numerous films over the years, but perhaps most memorably in the 1960s television series Route 66, which starred Martin Milner and George Maharis as they traveled the famous road in a Corvette convertible.
The show portrayed the colorful characters and distinctive landscapes encountered along the way, reflecting the reality of life on the road and the mythic quality of Route 66 in the American imagination.
Moreover, the historic highway has been featured in other movies as a backdrop for adventure, nostalgia, and the pursuit of the American dream.
From its origins in Chicago to its endpoint in Los Angeles, Route 66 continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of history, culture, and undeniable allure as a symbol of freedom and the open road.
Route 66 Today
Tourism on Route 66
Nowadays, Route 66 is a popular tourist attraction, with people from all over the world coming to experience the rich history and culture it provides.
As we travel along this iconic American highway, we can find many attractions, such as nostalgic diners, neon signs, and postcard-worthy views. In particular, states such as California, New Mexico, and Texas boast some of the most iconic pit stops and must-see landmarks.
While driving through Albuquerque, travelers can visit museums and restaurants celebrating Route 66’s heritage.
Heading towards California, there’s the famous Santa Monica Pier, marking the end of the journey. New Mexico offers the colorful Painted Desert, a stunning natural landscape featured in many postcards and promotional material related to Route 66.
Route 66 has also been immortalized in literature, such as Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” and television shows like the 1960s “Route 66.” Its influence has spread well beyond the borders of the United States and has become a symbol of nostalgia and the “Mother Road.”
Preservation Efforts of Route 66
Ongoing efforts are to preserve the iconic landmarks along Route 66 and keep its legacy alive. Organizations like the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program collaborate with the National Park Service to restore and maintain key historical sites and attractions.
Many establishments have also taken it upon themselves to restore neon signs, historic buildings, and other attractions that embody the spirit of Route 66.
Among these efforts is the National Park Service’s Route 66 Discover Our Shared Heritage Travel Itinerary, which helps travelers explore the rich history of the highway. Additionally, several states have designated sections of Route 66 as a state or national scenic byway, further protecting and promoting its cultural significance.
As we explore the preserved remnants of Route 66 today, we can see its impact on American culture and commerce. By supporting preservation efforts, Route 66 can remain a treasured symbol of Americana, inspiring travelers for generations to come.