A handful of states have just added segments of Route 66 as a National Scenic Byway. The idea of a national highway system first came to fruition with a 1921 amendment to the Federal Aid Road Act. Cyrus Avery, from Oklahoma, is viewed by many as the father of Route 66. Avery pushed for the Mother Road to pass through his home state for economical reasons, and it became a reality on November 11, 1926. America had entered into a new era of countrywide travel with a national highway, the Main Street of America, that stretched 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles.
     As automobiles changed the way Americans traveled, United States highways became standardized and much improved. Gas stations, eateries, and motels popped up all along the way. Pictured here is Bill Shea's porcelain paneled, 50's era filling station, just loaded with memorabilia. The Route 66 vintage gas station features a collection of gas station signs, pumps, photos and lots of Bill's personal tales. Located in Springfield, Illinois, the Peoria Road museum has fascinated visitors from all over the world.