Route 66 is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year with numerous events along the legendary highway. Established in 1926, this well-known road, one of the most influential in American history, stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. By 1960, however, it had shortened to 2,238 miles.
Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 functioned as the main artery of western migration and tourism. Over the years, the road guided millions of travelers through memorable landscapes and was viewed as a gateway to adventure for those Americans eager to explore its many wonders.
As people made their way westward, they discovered a vibrant roadside culture boasting such creations as ginormous fiberglass animals, hand-painted signs, neon on steroids, nostalgic mom and pop gas stations and motels, gift shops galore, vintage car graveyards and a slew of architectural marvels to catch the eye. Curiosity prompted folks to stop and investigate these landmarks, and to take plenty of photos to capture and immortalize their journey.
In New Mexico, Route 66 carves a path across the Land of Enchantment. Originally, the road headed north to the town of Las Vegas, then west to Santa Fe through Tecolote, San Jose, Pecos and Glorieta Pass, then back south to Albuquerque. In Santa Fe, it actually traveled along the Old Santa Fe Trail, another historical byway. This alignment though was replaced in 1937 with a more direct path into Albuquerque and beyond to Gallup…