Synopsis
"Route 66 in Tulsa" by Steve Clem, co-authored with Becky Hatchett and Rhys Martin, is a detailed exploration of Tulsa, Oklahoma's pivotal role in the history and cultural legacy of the iconic U.S. Highway 66, often referred to as the "Mother Road." Published by Arcadia Publishing, the book delves into the origins, evolution, and enduring impact of Route 66 within Tulsa, a city officially designated as the "Capital of Route 66" in 2024. Through a rich blend of historical narrative, vivid imagery, and personal insights, the authors trace the highway’s significance from its inception in the 1920s to its modern-day revival, emphasizing Tulsa’s unique contributions to the road’s storied past and vibrant present. The book serves as both a historical record and a celebration of Tulsa’s place in the broader Route 66 narrative, appealing to enthusiasts, historians, and travelers alike.
The narrative begins by situating Tulsa as a central hub in the creation of Route 66, largely due to the efforts of Cyrus Avery, a Tulsa businessman and civic leader known as the "Father of Route 66." Avery’s advocacy in the 1920s for a national highway system led to the establishment of Route 66 in 1926, with Tulsa serving as a key point along the route connecting Chicago to Los Angeles. The book describes how Tulsa, with its oil-driven prosperity and Art Deco architecture, became a bustling stop for travelers during the highway’s heyday. It highlights the city’s role as a cultural and economic crossroads, offering big-city amenities like hotels, diners, and theaters to motorists during the Great Depression, World War II, and the postwar boom. The authors paint a vivid picture of Tulsa’s Route 66 landscape, from neon-lit motels and gas stations to landmarks like the 11th Street Bridge, which Avery championed for inclusion in the highway’s path.
As the book progresses, it examines the decline of Route 66 following the rise of the interstate highway system, particularly after the opening of the Turner Turnpike in 1953 and the eventual decommissioning of Route 66 in 1985. The authors detail how Tulsa, like many communities along the route, faced economic challenges as traffic shifted to faster, straighter interstates, leading to the closure of iconic businesses and the fading of the highway’s prominence. However, the narrative also celebrates the road’s revival, spurred by preservation efforts and renewed interest in Route 66’s nostalgic charm. In Tulsa, this resurgence is evident in attractions like the Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza, featuring the "East Meets West" sculpture, and the neon sign park at Avery Plaza Southwest, which recreates the glowing signage of historic motels. The book also highlights modern landmarks like Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios and the Mother Road Market, which blend contemporary appeal with Route 66’s retro aesthetic.
Clem, Hatchett, and Martin enrich the synopsis with their deep connections to Route 66 and Tulsa’s history. Clem, a Route 66 "roadie" and museum trustee, brings a personal passion for the highway’s stories, while Hatchett’s involvement with the Southwest Tulsa Historical Society and Martin’s leadership in the Oklahoma Route 66 Association provide insider perspectives on preservation efforts. The book incorporates a wealth of archival photographs and anecdotes, capturing the essence of Tulsa’s Route 66 experience—from its Art Deco buildings to quirky roadside attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa. It also addresses the highway’s broader cultural impact, referencing its presence in literature, music, and film, including Michael Wallis’s influential "Route 66: The Mother Road" and the Pixar film "Cars," which drew inspiration from Tulsa’s Route 66 heritage.
Ultimately, "Route 66 in Tulsa" is a love letter to both the highway and the city, chronicling how Tulsa has embraced its role as a steward of Route 66’s legacy. The authors weave a narrative that balances historical rigor with an affectionate nod to the road’s quirky, enduring spirit, showcasing Tulsa’s transformation from an oil-rich boomtown to a modern destination for Route 66 enthusiasts. By exploring the past and present of this 28-mile stretch of the Mother Road, the book invites readers to rediscover Tulsa’s unique place in American history and to experience the vibrant attractions that continue to draw travelers seeking their kicks on Route 66.