Another feeling of beeing free under the aspect of
the American Dream
Route 66 means many things to many people. To some,
it`s memories of cross-country trips past wigwam motels and drive-ins.
For others, Route 66 was the way to a better life in California. Some travelers
in the `30s made the fastest time by flying the route by airplane during
the day, riding the train by night then taking a bus or taxi to their destination.
Route 66 was a landmark to aviators with radio beacons and airstrips adjacent
to the road, while in many places the railroad paralleled Route 66 for
hundreds of miles. Motorcycles were and are one of the most exciting ways
to ride the Route. However, despite all the wonderful vehicles and beautiful
scenery, it was people who made Route 66 what it was. Some of the people
along the way included the far-sighted bosters who got the route started,
tough-but-sentimental proprietors of cafes and gas stations, newlyweds
off on their honeymoons, traveling salesmen bringing the lastes jokes,
and truck drivers who picked up grateful hitchhikers.
Route 66 began in 1926 as the highway from Chicago, Illinois
to Santa Monica, California. The last part carrying the "Route 66" designation
was decertified in 1986, but you can still drive on parts of the Mother
Road today. The modern Interstate 40 parallels much of the old road in
the southwest U. S. but doesn`t have the the character of Route 66. Help
keep the memory of The Main Street of America alive by supporting the many
organizations that are preserving history for all to enjoy.
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