Route 66 in Springfield

Images of America: Illinois

by Cheryl Eichar Jett

From 1926 through 1977, Route 66 carried millions of travelers from the shores of Lake Michigan to the Pacific Coast. Americans fell in love with the automobile and made a family tradition of the road trip. On its three different alignments through the capital city of Springfield, Route 66 took motorists around the Illinois State Fairgrounds, past the state capitol, and through Abraham Lincoln's neighborhood. Mom-and-pop motels, gas stations, and eateries opened along the highway and became familiar landmarks to travelers in the "Land of Lincoln." In Springfield, the "horseshoe" and the "cozy dog" became popular local foods, and one of the first drive-up window restaurants opened. A man spent 40 years on Route 66 operating his gas station before transforming it into an internationally known museum. Meet the proprietors of these businesses, witness the growth of the highway, and enjoy a generous dose of nostalgia.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2010

About the author

Cheryl Eichar Jett is an author, historian, and freelance nonprofit consultant. She is also an avid genealogist. Currently, she is working on a second title for Arcadia Publishing Company and an historical novel set in Alton. She is a lifelong resident of Illinois and holds a master's degree in history. Her special interests are Illinois history, New Mexico history, and women's social history."