A book worth buying: The Illustrated Route 66 Historical Atlas

image004There’s a new book out that may be of interest to anyone in the industry. The Illustrated Route 66 Historical Atlas, by Jim Hinckley, explores the highways’ long history and obscure and colorful aspects, adding depth and context to the Route 66 experience. Marketed as three books in one, The Illustrated Route 66 Historical Atlas is a reference book, traditional atlas and travel guide.

Route 66 changed immensely in the six decades between its opening in 1926 and its removal from the U.S. highway system in 1985. Since that time, Route 66 has enjoyed a renaissance, and interest in America’s Mother Road as both a historical byway and a travel destination continues to grow.

Jim Hinckley’s book explores the road’s history from its inception into the present day. It is highlighted by specially commissioned fold-out maps for each state along the highway. The maps include points of interest along or near Route 66, divided into seven categories:

  • Pre-1926 historic sites (such as Lincoln’s home and presidential library)
  • Noteworthy landmarks, including the locations of infamous crimes and disasters;
  • Parks of interest along or near Route 66
  • Key sites in Route 66’s evolution (such as Hooker’s Cut, Missouri, an engineering marvel when completed)
  • Military-specific sites (including Civil War battlefields and POW and internment camps)
  • Historic attractions from the road’s midcentury heyday (such as Little Beaver Town and Geronimo’s Trading Post) including crime, disaster and film-related sites
  • Locations important to Route 66’s transition and modern resurgence.

If you’re a Route 66 fan, this is a book likely worth checking out. Head over to Barnes and Noble or Amazon to check it out!