About California Route 66 – Info & History
The allure of the open road, the promise of adventure, and the echoes of a bygone era all converge on the iconic Route 66. Of the nearly 2,500 miles that stretch from Chicago to Los Angeles, the California portion holds a unique place in the Mother Road’s storied history. This segment, extending approximately 320 miles from the arid landscapes bordering the Colorado River near Needles to the sun-kissed shores of the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica, offers a microcosm of California’s diverse geography, culture, and history. A journey along About California Route 66 – Info & History is a journey through time, a visual feast, and an immersion into the heart of the American dream.
Before the official designation of Route 66 in 1926, California held an irresistible magnetism for those seeking opportunity and a fresh start. Adventurers, explorers, and gold seekers, drawn by the state’s abundant natural resources, braved formidable challenges to reach this perceived land of prosperity. The Mojave Desert, with its scorching heat and desolate expanse, served as a natural barrier, isolating California from the rest of the nation. Only the most determined pioneers successfully navigated this harsh terrain.
The advent of Route 66 dramatically altered California’s accessibility. Suddenly, the Golden State was within reach for thousands of travelers eager to realize their dreams. Prior to Route 66, California had cultivated a spirit of self-reliance, fueled by the high cost of transporting goods from the East. This isolation fostered innovation, leading to local manufacturing of automobiles, appliances, and other essential materials.
At that time, a single-track railroad line served as the primary connection to Southern California. The arrival of Route 66 ushered in an era of unprecedented connectivity, as a steady stream of people and cargo flowed into the state via the newly paved highway. Trucks laden with goods replaced the limitations of the single railroad line, fueling California’s economic growth and transforming its social fabric. This article delves into About California Route 66 – Info & History.
Emerging from the trials of the Mojave Desert, weary travelers found respite and rejuvenation in the fertile San Bernardino Valley. The burgeoning tourist industry catered to their needs, providing essential services, inviting cafes, and comfortable motels that had been sorely lacking during the arduous desert crossing. The valley became a welcome oasis, a symbol of hope and prosperity after the challenges of the journey.
The 1930s witnessed a mass exodus from the Dust Bowl regions of the Midwest, as families sought refuge and a better life in California. The sheer volume of migrants prompted concerns among California’s established residents. The state, accustomed to its relative isolation, grappled with the influx of newcomers. In response, authorities established highway inspection stations, ostensibly to prevent the entry of those deemed "non-worthy." Disguised as agricultural checkpoints, these stations often served as barriers, turning away those who lacked the means to pay the required "bribe" for entry. Legend has it that some of these desperate individuals, stranded without resources, vanished into the desert, never to be seen again.
While federal intervention eventually dismantled this system of illegal inspection stations, agricultural checkpoints remain a feature of California’s border crossings to this day. This is a key part of About California Route 66 – Info & History.
Unfortunately, like in many other states along the Mother Road, the relentless march of progress has led to the demolition of numerous vintage landmarks in California. The desire for "new and shiny" developments, particularly in urban areas, has resulted in the loss of many Route 66-era buildings and businesses. However, pockets of history remain, offering glimpses into the past for those willing to seek them out.
In the desolate ghost towns of the Mojave Desert, where Interstate 40 bypassed the original Route 66, remnants of a bygone era still stand. These decaying structures, slowly succumbing to the elements, serve as poignant reminders of the road’s significance. Amidst the sprawling suburbs, fragments of old buildings peek out from behind modern strip centers, offering a tangible connection to the past. And within Los Angeles County, numerous historic landmarks along the Route 66 corridor are recognized and preserved, providing a valuable glimpse into the road’s rich heritage.
The Mojave Desert’s abandoned towns are particularly vulnerable to the ravages of time. As these structures continue to erode, it becomes increasingly important to document and preserve their memory. The California landscape plays a huge role in About California Route 66 – Info & History.
Fortunately, a significant portion of the original Route 66 remains drivable in California. The California Route 66 Preservation Foundation plays a vital role in protecting and promoting these remaining vestiges of the past. Near the western terminus of the Mother Road, Los Angeles County boasts 34 National Registered Historic Places located on or within a block of the original route.
The journey begins in Needles, where vintage motels offer a nostalgic welcome. From there, the road winds its way into the Mojave Desert, passing through the ghost towns of Goffs, Essex, Chambless, Amboy, and Ludlow before reconnecting with Interstate 40. Each of these towns, though largely abandoned, holds a unique story and a tangible connection to the past.
A detour to the historic ghost town of Calico provides a fascinating glimpse into California’s mining heritage. Continuing westward, Barstow offers a wealth of vintage icons, including the El Rancho Motel, constructed from railroad ties, and the meticulously restored Harvey House Hotel and depot, which now houses the Route 66 Mother Road Museum.
The road then follows the path of the Old Trails Highway to Victorville, where the California Route 66 Museum awaits, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that celebrate the road’s history. This article gives you insights into About California Route 66 – Info & History.
As the journey continues into the San Bernardino Valley, the landscape transforms into the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. However, San Bernardino itself retains a collection of vintage businesses, including the site of the world’s first McDonald’s, now a museum.
On the border between San Bernardino and its suburb of Rialto stands the infamous Wigwam Motel, a quirky landmark with a colorful past. This iconic motel, once known for its hourly rates, features a sign that playfully proclaims, "Do It In a Teepee."
Continuing through Fontana to Rancho Cucamonga, travelers can visit an old 1920s gas station and the Route 66 Visitors Center and Museum. In Upland, the landmark Buffalo Inn offers a hearty buffalo burger before the road leads to Pasadena.
From Pasadena, the original Route 66 stretches for 80 miles through Los Angeles and its suburbs, assuming various names such as Foothill Boulevard, Colorado Boulevard, Huntington Drive, Sunset Boulevard, and Santa Monica Boulevard. Finally, the road reaches its western terminus at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
A visit to the historic 1913 Colorado Street Bridge in Pasadena is a must. Continuing into downtown Los Angeles, travelers can admire numerous historic buildings before venturing through Hollywood and Beverly Hills for a glimpse of the "stars." Finally, the journey culminates in Santa Monica, where the spirit of Route 66 meets the Pacific Ocean. This article provides information about About California Route 66 – Info & History.
Exploring About California Route 66 – Info & History is more than just a road trip; it’s a journey into the heart of American history, culture, and the enduring spirit of adventure. From the desolate beauty of the Mojave Desert to the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, the California portion of Route 66 offers a unique and unforgettable experience.