Celebrating the rich legacy of the Mother Road—America’s Main Street. This traveling pop-up exhibit marks two milestones: 100 years of Route 66 and 250 years of the United States. We invite you on this journey with us to celebrate the enduring spirit of this American icon—a road that draws visitors from around the world and holds countless stories waiting to be uncovered.
"Sunset at El Don Motel", 2014, Albuquerque, NM, Courtesy of Donatella Davanzo. 100 Years. 2,448 Miles. One Legendary Road.
For nearly a hundred years, Route 66 has carried travelers across the heart of America — connecting eight states, hundreds of communities, and millions of personal memories. From the glow of neon signs to the hum of tires on open pavement, every mile tells a story of people chasing opportunity, invention, and freedom. Join us in exploring how Route 66 shaped American history, culture, and identity.
Many thanks to all of the organizations involved in bringing this exhibit to fruition including Real Travel App, the Octavia Fellin Public Library, the City of Gallup, Missouri Route 66 Association, Destination Forward, Missouri Centennial Commission, the City of Cuba, Assertion Films and CineFemme.
“A Historical Marker Evoking Route 66", 2014, Albuquerque, NM, Courtesy of Donatella Davanzo. 
“Route 66 Association Guide”, Courtesy of Joe Sonderman.About the exhibit
Dorothy McCoy Miller in Devil’s Elbow, MO, courtesy of Sue Ann (Miller) Dunn. This exhibit draws upon research & content created for the film series “Route 66: The Untold Story of Women on the Mother Road”, which was broadcast through American Public Television.
Exhibit Panels — Journey through the 20th century on Route 66, a road that mirrors America’s growth, challenges, and spirit of adventure.
Immersive Storytelling — Watch rare footage, listen to first-person accounts, and see short films from the road’s past.
Historic Artifacts & Art — Examine important artifacts and primary sources. See how the Mother Road has inspired artists.
Family-Friendly Activities — The exhibit is designed for all ages, with hands-on challenges and creative games for younger visitors.
Community Connections — Record your own Route 66 memories, or help create a collaborative art work about your state’s story.
Family vacation photos, courtesy of Hilda Velarde Salas. 
Activities and Lesson Plans for Grade 3 and Up
Route 66 provides an excellent lens for learning about American History in the 20th century. Our lesson plans can be used in conjunction with a visit to the exhibit or as way of integrating Route 66 history into your existing social studies, language arts or humanities classes. These lesson plans incorporate short videos from the film series “Route 66: The Untold Story of Women on the Mother Road”. Many of the lesson plans are available in Spanish and the all audio visual elements have subtitles in English or Spanish.
Route 66 Association Guide, Courtesy of Joe Sonderman. 
Photos of the Harvey Girls, courtesy of Assertion Films.This exhibition is made possible with generous support from:
Route 66 Mural, Springfield, MO, Courtesy of Assertion Films.