About Kansas Route 66 – Info & History
The iconic Route 66, a ribbon of asphalt that once symbolized the American Dream and the freedom of the open road, weaves its way through eight states, each offering a unique slice of Americana. Among these states, Kansas holds the distinction of possessing the shortest stretch of this historic highway, a mere 13.2 miles. However, to underestimate this brief journey would be a grave error. Within these few miles, the Kansas portion of Route 66 encapsulates the very essence of the Mother Road experience, arguably offering a richer tapestry of history and nostalgia than many longer segments.
This concise section of Kansas Route 66 serves as a microcosm of the American story, providing glimpses into the nation’s past, from the tumultuous era of the Civil War to the rugged days of the Old West and the industrial boom (and subsequent bust) of the Tri-State mining area. Despite its brevity, the Kansas portion of Route 66 is packed with landmarks, historical sites, and the lingering echoes of a bygone era.
The entire length of the Kansas Route 66 was paved by 1929, ensuring a relatively smooth journey for the travelers of the time. Remarkably, this section of the Mother Road managed to avoid being bypassed by the sprawling Interstate system that rerouted and, in some cases, obliterated much of the original Route 66. While the road does feature some characteristic zigs and zags as it follows section lines, careful planning and clear signage make it easily navigable for modern-day adventurers seeking to retrace the steps of those who came before.
As travelers venture westward from Joplin, Missouri, and cross into Kansas, they are immediately confronted with a stark landscape – a testament to the region’s extensive mining history. The land, scarred by years of lead and zinc extraction, bears the visible marks of an industry that flourished and then faded in the 1970s. This area, once referred to as "Hell’s Half Acre," presents a haunting, almost post-apocalyptic vista. However, even amidst the devastation, there is a strange beauty to be found, a resilience in the landscape that speaks to the enduring spirit of the region.
The first town encountered upon entering Kansas is Galena, a community steeped in mining history. Here, visitors can delve into the past at the Howard Litch Historical and Mining Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the story of the mining industry and its impact on the region. The museum sheds light on the difficult working conditions, the labor disputes, and the violent clashes that plagued the area, including the infamous union fallout of the 1930s, which left the streets of Galena stained with blood.
As travelers turn south onto Main Street in Galena, they find themselves on what was once known as "Red Hot Street," a notorious thoroughfare that catered to the needs and desires of the many miners who flocked to the town. Saloons and bawdy houses lined the street, operating around the clock to provide entertainment and respite for the hardworking men who toiled in the mines. Today, the atmosphere is considerably tamer, but the echoes of the past still linger in the architecture and the collective memory of the town.
A short three miles further down the road, Route 66 crosses the Spring River, leading to the small, unassuming town of Riverton. Here, one can find the Eisler Brothers Store, a general store that has been serving the community since its construction in 1925. This iconic establishment offers a glimpse into the past, with its vintage facade and its shelves stocked with a mix of modern conveniences and nostalgic reminders of a simpler time. The Eisler Brothers Store stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of small-town America and the importance of community.
Continuing eastward from Riverton, travelers soon encounter one of the most iconic landmarks along the Kansas Route 66: the Rainbow Bridge. Built in 1923, this Marsh Arch bridge is the only one of its kind still standing on the original Route 66. Once slated for demolition, the bridge was saved from destruction thanks to the efforts of the Kansas Route 66 Association, which recognized its historical significance and successfully lobbied Cherokee County officials to preserve it as a historic landmark. Today, fully refurbished, the Rainbow Bridge stands as a proud symbol of the Mother Road, welcoming travelers to experience a tangible piece of history. Remarkably, the bridge remains in such excellent condition that it is still open to vehicular traffic, allowing visitors to drive across it and imagine what it must have been like to traverse this iconic structure in the early days of Route 66.
After crossing the Rainbow Bridge, the old alignment of Route 66 continues into Baxter Springs via Willow Avenue. Once in Baxter Springs, the route turns left onto Third Street and then right onto Military Avenue. This town is steeped in Civil War history, and also provides a fascinating glimpse into several well-preserved vintage buildings from the Route 66 era.
The Heritage Center and Museum in Baxter Springs offers visitors a comprehensive overview of the town’s history, including its connections to Route 66 and the battles fought in the area during the Civil War. Baxter Springs also has a colorful past, having been visited by notorious outlaws such as the James-Younger Gang, the Dalton Gang, Henry Starr, and even Bonnie and Clyde. The museum serves as a repository of local lore and a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the rich and complex history of this corner of Kansas.
As travelers prepare to leave Kansas and continue their journey into Oklahoma, they can take with them the memories of the friendly hospitality they encountered along the way. The people of the Kansas Route 66 region are known for their warmth and welcoming spirit, and they are eager to share their stories and their love of the Mother Road with visitors from around the world. This brief but memorable stretch of Kansas Route 66 offers a rich and rewarding experience for anyone seeking to connect with the history, the culture, and the enduring spirit of the American open road. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures are found in the most unexpected places.
The Kansas Route 66, though short, encapsulates the spirit of the Mother Road.