Introduction
Route 66 occupies a special place in American popular culture and history. While it
traversed some of the most remote country in the United States, its prominence is
primarily due to its role in social changes that took place during the first half of the
20th century. The Great Depression, World War II, and the postwar years all were
manifested along Route 66. The highway has come to represent American mobility,
independence. and spirit of adventure.
Since it was designated as a federal highway in 1926, Route 66 has wound through
American history and culture. The road was celebrated in the media and functioned as an
integral part of several historical periods. After the route was decommissioned in 1985 it
lived on in the minds and home towns of many.
Legislation
On September 28, 1990, Congress passed Public Law 102-400, the Route 66 Study Act of
1990 (appendix A). The act recognized that Route 66, one of the earliest examples of the
1926 National Highway System Program, "has become a symbol of the American people's
heritage of travel and their legacy of seeking a better life." Although remnants of
the road are quickly disappearing, significant structures, features, and artifacts
associated with the road remain. Numerous state agencies and private organizations are
interested in the road, its history, and its role in American popular culture.
The intent of the legislation is to:
- evaluate the significance of Route 66 in American history
- identify options for the preservation and use of remaining segments of Route 66
- identify options for the preservation and interpretation of significant features
associated with the highway
- consider private sector preservation alternatives
As a result of the legislation, the National Park Service's Denver Service
Center, in cooperation with the NPS Southwest, Midwest, and Western Regional Offices, has
been directed to conduct this special resource study of possible management and
preservation options for the route. Congress also specified that representatives of each
of the states traversed by Route 66, state historic preservation offices. representatives
of associations interested in the preservation of the road and its features, and experts
in the fields of American history. historic preservation, and popular culture would be
consulted.
GOALS OF THE STUDY
This study:
- identifies management options and roles
- provides Congress with a range of preservation and use options for remaining segments of
the road
- gives Congress a range of options for the preservation and interpretation of significant
features associated with the road
- considers private sector preservation alternatives
- describes federal, state, county, community, and private planning efforts
- evaluates the significance of Route 66 in American history
This study is not intended as a detailed examination of Route 66 resources nor
as a specific action plan. It does not outline an acquisition program, offer a complete
inventory of Route 66 resources, or present the definitive history of Route 66.
Reprinted from:
Special Resource Study Route 66
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service (See Credits)
NPS D-4 July 1995.
