12 Vintage Photos Show Missouri’s Route 66 as It Once Was

As Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, I have found a dozen photos that show how this iconic route used to look many decades ago during its prime era.

Route 66 was born on November 11, 1926. It spans 2,448 miles of highway from Illinois to California which puts Missouri right in the middle of the glory days of this road. Thanks to the diligent work of the State Historical Society of Missouri, you can relive Route 66 during its vintage era.

The Route 66 Centennial celebration has been happening throughout 2026 with numerous special events to mark 100 years of this iconic part of Americana. Many of the classic stops along Route 66 have drifted away into history, but the fact that the State Historical Society of Missouri has preserved many of those memories means you none of us need to forget what it used to be.