Smithsonian Magazine – Travel

The Remarkable, Amazing Stories of Route 66 Reflect the Twists and Turns of 100 Years of Americana

The Smithsonian special report marks Route 66’s centennial, tracing its birth in 1926 under Cyrus Avery’s advocacy, its pivotal role during the Great Depression, World War II, and the post‑war road‑trip boom, and its eventual eclipse by the interstate system. The piece highlights quirky promotions like the 1928 Bunion Derby and the rise of neon‑lit motels that defined the roadside economy. Today, preservation efforts—exemplified by Albert Okura’s restoration of Amboy’s gas station and annual car shows—keep the historic highway alive for tourists and heritage enthusiasts. The story underscores Route 66’s enduring cultural imprint on American travel and identity.