Father of Route 66: The Enthralling Story of Cy Avery, the Man Who Shaped America's Highway

Cyrus Avery, affectionately known as "Cy," was an unsung hero whose visionary ideas and tireless efforts left an indelible mark on the American landscape. As the driving force behind Route 66, the legendary highway that stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, Cy Avery played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's transportation infrastructure and cultural landscape.

Father of Route 66: The Story of Cy Avery

by Susan Croce Kelly

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10653 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages
Pocket Book	:	960 pages
Item Weight	:	14.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.33 x 1.57 x 7.09 inches

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Born in 1879 in the small town of Larned, Kansas, Cy Avery's humble beginnings forged his resilience and determination. From a young age, he displayed an unyielding passion for automobiles and the potential they held for connecting communities.

A Champion of Good Roads

Cy Avery's vision for a national highway system emerged during the early 20th century, a time when road travel was an arduous and often treacherous endeavor. Recognizing the economic and social benefits of improved transportation, Avery became a staunch advocate for "good roads."

In 1914, Avery joined the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHO) and swiftly rose through its ranks, becoming its president in 1929. From this influential position, he tirelessly lobbied for federal funding to support road construction and maintenance.

The Genesis of Route 66

In 1925, the AASHO convened a meeting in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to discuss a proposal for a new highway that would link the Midwest to the Pacific coast. Cy Avery was instrumental in rallying support for this ambitious project, which would eventually become known as Route 66.

Avery's unwavering belief in the transformative power of the highway earned him the moniker "Father of Route 66." He spent countless hours traveling the country, promoting the benefits of the new road and building alliances with state and local officials.

Construction and Designation

The construction of Route 66 commenced in 1926 and continued for several years, with each state along its path responsible for its own section. Avery played a crucial role in coordinating this massive undertaking, ensuring that the highway met uniform standards of quality and design.

In 1927, Route 66 was officially designated as part of the U.S. Highway System, adding further legitimacy and importance to its status.

A Cultural Icon

Route 66 quickly captured the imagination of Americans, becoming more than just a transportation route. It evolved into a cultural icon, symbolizing the freedom and adventure of the open road.

The highway was immortalized in song, literature, and film, with its roadside attractions, quirky towns, and vibrant local businesses becoming beloved landmarks.

Decline and Preservation

The golden age of Route 66 lasted for several decades, reaching its peak in the post-World War II era. However, the construction of the interstate highway system in the 1950s and 1960s led to a decline in traffic on the older road.

Fortunately, efforts to preserve Route 66 gained momentum in the 1980s, with the establishment of the National Historic Route 66 Federation. Today, many sections of the highway have been designated as historic landmarks, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Legacy of Cy Avery

Cy Avery passed away in 1961, but his legacy continues to inspire. His unwavering dedication to improving transportation infrastructure and his belief in the transformative power of connectivity have left a lasting impact on America.

Route 66 remains a testament to Cy Avery's vision and determination. It stands as a symbol of American ingenuity, perseverance, and the enduring allure of the open road.

Additional Resources

• National Historic Route 66 Federation
• Route 66 on the National Register of Historic Places
• PBS: Route 66: The Mother Road
• Father of Route 66: A Biography of Cyrus Avery by John Steinbeck IV